Ajinkya Rahane’s comeback in the World Test Championship Final at the Kennington Oval is akin to a thrilling Bollywood script. On Day 3, Rahane etched his name in the history books as the first Indian batsman to score a fifty in the match. India faced an early setback when KS Bharat was bowled out on the second ball of the day, but Rahane, along with Shardul Thakur, took charge and propelled the team’s score past 200.
Replacing the injured Shreyas Iyer, Rahane seized the opportunity with unwavering determination. Amidst the formidable Australian bowling attack, he emerged as a pillar of stability for the Indian batting lineup. With the top order struggling, the team needed a reliable anchor to resurrect their hopes of a competitive total, and Rahane embraced this responsibility wholeheartedly.
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Here’s how Twitter reacted to Ajinkya Rahane’s fifty:
Rahane redemption 🥵
— Jai ♡ (@Mr_CupidforEver) June 9, 2023
So far Ajinkya Rahane has been brilliant in his comeback test match.#WTCFinal2023 https://t.co/tr8ID70T54
— Suraj (@suraj_thoughts) June 9, 2023
Ajinkya Rahane ‘s Cover drive off Cameron Green after he reached another test 50 in #WTCFinal2023 had More Value to it than Flat Track Bullies Gill
Rohit Sharma & #ViratKohli‘ s useless Centuries KS Bharat didn’t deserve to play even County Cricket#INDvsAUS#AjinkyaRahane pic.twitter.com/v9ESEDWink— MTvalluvan (@MTvalluvan) June 9, 2023
Bazball might be a good tactic to use while batting in Test cricket in current era
In this game also Head Rahane Jadeja all three played counter attacking innings and took their risk while batting
— Virarsh (@Cheeku218) June 9, 2023
Just Pure class & Damn Good cricket 🏏
Ajinkya Rahane, you Beauty.#WTCFinal2023 pic.twitter.com/qVUCQuQdsY— Aditya Yadav (@AdityaY84276209) June 9, 2023
#AjinkyaRahane #WTCFinal2023
Ajinkya Rahane becomes the first Indian batter to register a fifty in the WTC Final.🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/AWQDoopqdM— Nilesh👑 (@KeshavalaNilesh) June 9, 2023
1st Indian to Score 50+ in
CT final – Sachin Tendulkar (2000)
WC final – Virender Sehwag (2003)
T20WC final – Gautam Gambhir (2007)
WTC final – Ajinkya Rahane (2023)*#WTCFinal— 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒃𝒂𝒔 (@Shebas_10dulkar) June 9, 2023
In a captivating showdown against Pat Cummins, one of the world’s top fast bowlers, Rahane showcased his skill and composure. When Cummins unleashed a short ball down the leg side, Rahane swiftly pivoted and unleashed a powerful pull shot. The ball sailed over the long leg boundary, clearing the ropes with ease.
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This remarkable shot not only brought up his well-deserved half-century but also symbolized a significant moment in his career, marking his 26th fifty in Test cricket—an impressive testament to his experience and resilience.
Rahane’s journey to this milestone was filled with challenges. After an 18-month hiatus, he finally regained his spot in the Test squad, entrusted with the crucial task of stabilizing the middle order. Despite stiff competition from talented batsmen like Surya Kumar Yadav, Rahane proved his worth to the selectors through his exceptional performance.
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His comeback is a shining example of his unwavering commitment to the team and his ability to deliver under pressure. As the World Test Championship Final unfolds, Rahane’s resilience and contributions will continue to play a vital role in India’s pursuit of victory. His remarkable fifty not only demonstrates his individual prowess but also serves as a source of inspiration for the entire team. With Rahane leading the charge, India’s hopes are reignited, and the stage is set for a captivating conclusion to this thrilling cricketing saga.
