There is a lot that you can do in 20 overs: Rahane

JAIPUR: Ajinkya Rahane believes in keeping it simple. In a chat with TOI before Friday's game against Punjab, the Rajasthan player had said that 20 overs is a lot and there is no need to panic. "The idea is to keep it simple," he said. "There is a lot that you can do in 20 overs."

On Friday, he did do a lot. A rocking 98 was good enough to seal the issue for Team Jaipur. "It was disappointing to miss the century," he said after Friday's match. "But then, the team won and that was the biggest achievement. When you score a century and the team loses, it is of no use."

Rahane had told TOI that runs will come as long as one backs himself. "One has to back himself and stay calm and composed," he said. Pressure, he added, is a state of the mind. "You play your game and keep it simple. I don't think the pressure will affect you."

The Mumbai-based batsman did have his disappointing moments in Australia, when he was on the benches during the Tests even as India floundered. "I did play in a couple of tour matches, but could not really grab these chances," he said. Rahane would not blame anyone for not getting a call-up for the Tests. "The management did what was best for the team and I am not complaining," he added. "It is not in my hand to be selected for the Indian team. I will just continue to give of my best."

It was frustrating to watch India lose one Test after the other and Rahane admits that perhaps India could not acclimatize to the conditions Down Under soon enough.

"I do feel the focus on the emerging sides should be more. India A should tour overseas more often. That's how the players will be able to get used to conditions outside the country. I have benefited a lot from the India A tours," he said.

Talking about Team Jaipur, he said that he has managed to gel with the team very well. "I was with the team last year too and it is like one big family. We enjoy each other's company."

Rahul Dravid's presence is a great moral booster for youngsters like Rahane. Having the legend as his opening partner has also helped.

Team Jaipur tried out various opening combinations in practice games before settling down on the Dravid-Rahane pair. "It's a pleasure playing with Rahul-bhai. He always motivates me," Rahane said.