A Batsman's Batsman Ajinkya Rahane

Hello! talks to Indian Cricket’s rising star about the changing form of the game and what keeps him ticking in an industry dominated by heavy hitting batsmen and master blasters.

- Vishwaveer Singh

We are meeting Ajinkya Rahane a day after he has turned 30-years-old. In the short span that he has been on the Indian cricketing scene, Rahane has managed to create a niche for himself that is respected by several senior cricketing personalities. His similarity to Rahul Dravid’s playing style on field is uncanny… patient, concentrating more on technique than entertaining the crowds hungry for far-flung boundaries. In many ways he’s the perfect Test cricket player, also enjoying the position of Vice Captain of the Indian Test team, as well as being the captain of the Rajasthan Royals IPL team. HELLO! presents a timely tête-à-tête.

You celebrated your 30th birthday yesterday and were wished by Sachin Tendulkar, who called you one of the hardest working cricketers he knows. How does getting a compliment like that feel from Sachin himself?

“It feels very special because, I think getting messages from Sachin Tendulkar, you always feel motivated, you get inspired. One thing I noticed – and I’ve said this many times – during his last test match, he called me and said, ‘The greatest strength in cricket is your attitude, your ability to work hard.’ His post yesterday, obviously his messages and our conversations, always motivate me… but, I think getting his message on my birthday was very special!”

Many cricketers compare your batting style to Rahul Dravid’s; would you agree that you share a similar playing style?