Former Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane shared memories of a difficult period in his career when, despite being included in the Test squad, he could not make the starting XI. The 38-year-old waited nearly two years and 20 matches for his Test debut. During this time, he remained part of the team, primarily serving as the 12th player.
Rahane admitted that this period was challenging. However, instead of feeling disappointed or seeking sympathy, he viewed it as an opportunity for self-improvement. He believes that this waiting period strengthened his approach and mentality, which later helped him build a long career in Tests.
Ajinkya Rahane first debuted for India in limited-overs formats in August 2011. After that, he began to be included in the Test team, but access to the starting lineup was not immediate. Sharing these memories on his YouTube channel, Rahane noted: 'The first two years after I first joined the team in 2011 were very difficult for me. I had to wait 20 matches for my Test debut, and I was the 12th player for two years.'
It is natural for any young player to become upset when constantly being outside the starting lineup. According to Ajinkya Rahane, at that time he faced two options: either seek sympathy from people regarding his situation or use the time to improve himself. He stated: 'I had two options before me. Either I seek sympathy, or I try to improve myself. There is nothing wrong with being the 12th player, fetching water, or helping teammates. I took it positively.'
Rahane did not view the role of the 12th player merely as waiting. He closely observed senior players on the field and in the dressing room, trying to learn from them. He recounted that observing the players changed his mindset and his view of cricket. Rahane believes that this experience contributed to his long-term participation in games for India.
Ajinkya Rahane also spoke about an interesting instance related to developing patience in his career. He linked this to journeys on the local Mumbai train. Rahane said: 'I wouldn't say I had so much patience from the beginning. When you travel on the local Mumbai train, it can be difficult. Patience starts developing from there.'
After consistently scoring runs in home matches, Ajinkya Rahane also felt hope for a spot in the Indian team. In his opinion, after playing well, a player naturally begins to think that their name should now appear in the Indian squad. Rahane reported that after conversations with some senior cricketers, he started focusing on things within his control instead of overthinking the selection.
He emphasized: 'Over time, I realized what would happen when it was supposed to happen. What is under your control, you can do. If you want to play long, patience is very important.'
This wait for Ajinkya Rahane finally ended in March 2013, when he was given the opportunity to debut in Test cricket. After that, he was a vital part of the middle order of the Indian Test team for a long time. For India, Rahane played 144 innings in 85 Tests, scoring 5077 runs. His average was 38.46, and he scored 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries.
