Ajinkya Rahane's boundary rope brilliance during IPL 2024 opener earns him praise from Jonty Rhodes

The opening match of the Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered an early season highlight reel moment. Veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane showed his brilliance on the field, pulling off a sensational catch to dismiss the star cricketer Virat Kohli. Rahane's quick thinking and athletic ability received high praise from fielding legend Jonty Rhodes.

RCB was trying to build a competitive total after opting to bat first. Kohli and the hard-hitting Glenn Maxwell were looking to accelerate when Mustafizur Rahman struck in the 12th over. Kohli mistimed a pull shot, sending the ball sailing towards the deep midwicket boundary. 

Sprinting full tilt, Rahane plucked the ball inches from the turf with an outstretched right hand. However, his momentum was carrying him over the rope. Rahane wasted no time and released the ball towards the corner of the boundary line just before going across, allowing his teammate Rachin Ravindra to complete the relay catch.

Also read: Faf du Plessis opens up after losing opening clash against CSK

Jonty Rhodes impressed by Ajinkya Rahane's fielding

Kohli could not believe his eyes as he walked back to the pavilion for 21 off 20 balls with RCB reeling at 77/4. The incredible athleticism and game awareness immediately drew praise from the great Rhodes who is currently serving as the assistant coach of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on social media.

"Wow, how was that awareness by @ajinkyarahane88 on the boundary for @ChennaiIPL to get rid of @imVkohli #cantteachexperience," the former South African legend tweeted.

Also read: IPL 2024: Rahane's boundary rope brilliance sends Kohli back to the hut

Rahane wasn't done impressing on the night as he followed up his fielding heroics with a handy 27 off 19 balls, forming crucial partnerships in CSK's successful run chase. His experience and all-round value were on full display in the IPL opener. RCB scored 173/6 batting first and CSK chased down the target quite easily and won the game by six wickets.