Sourav Ganguly thinks Ajinkya Rahane deserves a spot in the middle order

As India stepped onto the field in Dharamshala under the new skipper Rohit Sharma, there were lots of questions hovering around regarding the absence of Ajinkya Rahane. The right-hander has shown tremendous form in whatever chances he has got. He was expected to feature in the playing XI in Kohli’s truancy.

Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly voiced his opinion and he wasn’t happy with Rahane’s ouster. He felt that the Mumbai batsman can be accommodated at the No.4 or No.5 spots.

Are India playing the best team?

Speaking to Hindustan Times, Ganguly described that he was surprised that Rahane didn’t play. Boasting about his credentials, Dada expected him to take the field in the second game at Mohali.

“Whatever happened in Dharamsala was an aberration and we all know the capability of these batsmen. What is worrying me though, is, are India playing the best team? I know it will seam in Mohali too – since it’s an 11.30 am start – and India must play Ajinkya Rahane at No 3. He should have played in Dharamsala too because he has the ability to play in such conditions. So, I am a little curious to know why he didn’t play,”

Rahane should be playing at No.3

Ganguly was of the opinion that Rahane could bat anywhere, he can be the floater in the team. He also took a stand for KL Rahul to be included in the team.

“Going by the conditions in Dharamsala and Mohali, it is imperative Rahane plays at No.3. In fact, to my mind, both Rahane and KL Rahul (not in the squad) should be playing more and more ODIs”

Keeping in mind the upcoming World Cup, Ganguly remarked that Rahane would be a crucial part of the Indian setup. He stated that the batter could be adjusted at the coveted No.4 position, once Virat Kohli comes back.

“When Virat comes back at No.3, there will still be slots at Nos.4 and 5 (with Dhoni at No.6) and if you are looking at the World Cup 2019, I would want the selectors and team management to back Rahane and Rahul. They have proved themselves in the past and I think they will make the middle-order more productive,” he said.