Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin yesterday was critical of the Indian team management's decision to bench Ajinkya Rahane during the 0-2 Twenty20 series defeat to South Africa, terming him a far better player than Ambati Rayudu
Ajinkya Rahane and (inset) Mohammed Azharuddin
New Delhi: Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin yesterday was critical of the Indian team management's decision to bench Ajinkya Rahane during the 0-2 Twenty20 series defeat to South Africa, terming him a far better player than Ambati Rayudu.
Mohammed Azharuddin
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India lost the first ODI in Kanpur to SA by five runs yesterday despite Rohit Sharma scoring 150 and 60 by Rahane.
"There's nothing wrong with Ajinkya's technique or temperament. It was the most unfortunate thing that he had to sit out during the T20 series.
Ajinkya Rahane en route his 82-ball 60
When he was finally picked, it was too late as the series was lost.
With due respect to Rayudu, Ajinkya is a far better player. How can you bench your best batsman after Virat Kohli?
Rahane is an attacking player and has to bat up the order," said Azharuddin.