India’s vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has opened up about Ben Stokes’ decision of taking a break from cricket. Rahane backed Stokes’ call and said we respect his decision to take a break. Stokes will miss the upcoming Test series against India.
Recently, Stokes made this announcement on Friday and stirred the debate of mental health around the cricketing fraternity. He opted to take an indefinite break from all cricket to keep his mental health in check.
Also Read: Ajinkya Rahane and Raj Kundra’s conversation going viral after latter’s arrest
He also mentioned having severe pain in his finger with which he played through the One-Day International series against Pakistan.
Several cricketers and experts lauded Stokes’ decision of opening up and giving priority to his mental health as well. Rahane is the latest to join the chorus in support of Stokes.
“Bio-bubble life is really challenging. From the players’ point of view, what Ben Stokes did, was his call. You have got to understand the player’s mindset as well. It’s all about how we experience it,” he said while speaking to reporters.
“Because when you play at the highest level, you want to give your best, more than a hundred per cent, and your mental health matters a lot. So we respect that. We respect his decision. I am sure his teammates also respect his decision.”
Also Read: Ajinkya Rahane is vital cog in Indian batting order, says VVS Laxman
The 33-year-old advised everyone to consider players’ feelings and emotions as they are finding it hard to sustain life in bio-secure bubbles around the world.
“I think it’s all about understanding the player’s headspace. You have to understand what the player is going through in that difficult moment. So we respect the decision, whatever he did, it was his call,” he further added.
“But yes, it is tough, it is challenging as a player as a team to be in the bio-bubble continuously and give your best all the time takes a lot.”
The opening Test between England and India will be played on August 4 in Nottingham’s Trent Bridge.
