Ajinkya Rahane pulls out of Leicestershire stint to manage workload

Leicestershire managed to secure Ajinkya Rahane’s signing after the cricketer had a brilliant season in the domestic circuit. The 35-year-old was slated to play in the Royal London One-Day Cup, but eventually pulled out of it to manage his workload.

Notably, at the time of signing, Rahane’s international career seemed to be over, as the cricketer was not offered a central contract by the BCCI. However, he made an emphatic comeback by being extremely consistent in the domestic arena and also made a significant impact in the WTC final. Hence, the 35-year-old once again became a part of the scheme of things, and it resulted in him pulling out of the deal.

Claude Henderson, Leicestershire's director of cricket, explained the new development on Saturday, July 29 and stated that the club completely understands Rahane’s decision. He also went on to add Peter Handscomb will be extending his stay in Rahane’s absence.

“We are fully understanding Ajinkya's situation. He has experienced a hectic schedule in recent months, both in India and travelling with the national team, and we accept his wishes to recover and spend some time with his family. We have been in constant communication with Ajinkya and accept how situations can change quickly in cricket. He is extremely grateful for our understanding and still hopes to play for Leicestershire one day.

“Thankfully, we had planned for a situation like this, and we are delighted Peter is staying on with the team. He brings many qualities alongside his batting and wicketkeeping, including strong leadership, which is a massive help to Lewis (Hill) and the rest of the guys in our changing room,” Henderson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Meanwhile, the Indian batter will be prepping up to keep his place in the playing XI for India’s tour to South Africa. By the time, the likes of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will be available for selection, and hence, it will not be a cakewalk for the Mumbai-born cricketer going forward.