The Silent Exit: Ajinkya Rahane and the Unseen Cracks in Indian Cricket Selection

A Consistent Performer Overlooked

Ajinkya Rahane, a name synonymous with dependability in overseas Test matches, has become a casualty of India's overflowing talent pool. Once the anchor at number four, his standing has plummeted in the last two years, leaving him out of contention across all formats.

While not known for outspokenness, Rahane has shed light on a concerning flaw within the current selection process: a lack of communication. Following the 2023 World Test Championship final, he was dropped without explanation, left to decipher his fate in silence.

The Unspoken Dismissal

“I felt bad because I have been serving for so long,” Rahane confided in an interview with the Indian Express. He detailed his return to form, his contributions in domestic cricket and the IPL, all culminating in selection for the WTC final. Yet, the subsequent dismissal felt abrupt and unwarranted, leaving him questioning his future.

"When I was dropped a few years ago, I made runs and was picked for the World Test Championship final and then was dropped again," Rahane explained, highlighting the cycle of performance, selection, and then inexplicable omission.

A Plea for Dialogue

Rahane revealed that despite advice urging him to confront the selectors, he found himself unable to do so. The other party, he explained, wasn't open to conversation. "Many said 'go and talk' but one can only talk when the other person is ready to talk," he lamented. This lack of transparency underscores a potential disconnect between the selection committee and the players they evaluate.

“I thought I would be there for the next series," Rahane admitted, emphasizing the shock and disappointment of his post-WTC exclusion. He maintains a quiet dignity, choosing to focus on what he can control: his performance. "There is a belief that I will make a comeback,” he affirmed.

The Power of Perception

In an era where carefully crafted narratives dominate the media, Rahane's absence of a PR team stands out. "I don't have a PR team, my only PR is my cricket," he stated. He's now realizing the importance of staying in the public eye, acknowledging that silence can be misinterpreted as apathy.

“Now I am told I need to speak up, talk about my hard work," Rahane reflected, hinting at the changing landscape of professional cricket where performance alone may not be enough. “People say you need to be in the news… Otherwise, people think that I'm out of the circle," he added, a poignant observation on the power of perception in the modern game.

A Resurgence of Form

Despite a lukewarm start in the Ranji Trophy, Rahane rediscovered his form with a century against Haryana at Eden Gardens, a fitting achievement in his 200th first-class match. This resurgence is a testament to his resilience and a reminder of his enduring talent. Whether it translates into a return to the national team remains to be seen, but Rahane's story continues to be one of quiet determination and unwavering belief in his abilities.