India’s deputy skipper in Tests, Ajinkya Rahane reckons that the players will require at least a month of training before the resumption of competitive games, which can only be possible only after a vaccine for the dreaded COVID-19 is discovered. He also said that in a coronavirus-scarred world, the lifestyle of cricketers will witness significant changes as far as pre and post-match routines are concerned.

During an online press conference of the ELSA app, Rahane said, “…we would be needing three to four weeks of proper practice before playing any kind of competitive game (domestic or international)…I am missing my batting. But obviously, cricket should only start when we get a vaccine to fight the virus.”

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While the sports ministry is planning to resume sporting action in phase for the national camps in Olympic disciplines, the BCCI has made no plans for cricket resumption yet. Rahane said he is focussing on his fitness amid the lockdown. He agreed that in the future, players will be wary of wild celebrations and group hugs which they are so used to at the fall of wickets.

The veteran batsman elaborated, “I think we might go back to the good old days when fielders would still stand in their designated positions after the fall of a wicket and clap. Maybe handshakes will be replaced by a ‘Namaste’. But once sport resumes, you can’t take anything for granted. The safety of the fans will be of utmost importance. There will be changes in lifestyle while traveling. Especially before and after the match.”

However, he was not sure of banning the use of saliva is the right move or not. He feels that the confirmation can only be made once play resumes. A couple of months back there were discussions about trying Rahane to make a comeback in white-ball cricket because of his experience and IPL would have been a great platform for him to reaffirm his status as a quality white-ball player.

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However, with the event postponed indefinitely, Rahane’s chances of a comeback in ODIs and T20Is certainly got affected. But seasoned batsman, who has played 65 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is, wants to stay positive.