Ajinkya Rahane expresses hope to play in upcoming Ranji Trophy matches after sustaining minor injury

The Ranji Trophy tournament is one of the few occasions when the upcoming stars and Team India players can be seen in action. Ajinkya Rahane, who has been a part of the Men in Blue on and off, is one such name. Rahane is a member of Mumbai's squad competing in the event. The Ranji Trophy is an excellent opportunity for cricketers to exhibit their talent and remain in the selectors' minds by putting on a convincing performance. It was an exceptional opportunity for Rahane to shine. However, things took an unexpected turn.

3 things you need to know

• Ajinkya Rahane is the captain of Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy
• Rahane last competed in Team India during the Windies tour 
• Ajinkya Rahane was a member of the Team in the WTC Final loss to Australia

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Ajinkya Rahane reveals why he missed out on the Mumbai-Bihar match

Before Mumbai and Bihar's Ranji Trophy match, all eyes were on Ajinkya Rahane, who was supposed to take on the leadership role. Rahane's name was absent from the Playing XI declaration, though. They designated Shams Mulani as the captain for the encounter against Bihar. An unlucky boulder struck Ajinkya on his path to atonement. According to reports, Pujara's absence was due to a health issue. While speaking to the media, Rahane said,

"I have a great passion for playing, and that's why I came to Patna. I never back down from playing. However, during a practice session, I suffered a minor injury in my neck. That's why I am not playing this match. But I will definitely play in the upcoming Ranji matches."

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Ajinkya Rahane is one of Team India's top players in the red ball format and has been instrumental in the squad's wins in Test matches. However, the dip in his performance led to him staying off the selector's minds for the South Africa test series. He last competed in the Windies series, where he failed to put up numbers. But now, Rahane has a chance to show up and show out in Ranji. He will also function in the IPL 2024 season with the Chennai Super Kings.