Team India is just one step away from the ICC World Cup 2019 but the riddle of No 4 position is yet unsolved. With all international fixtures done with, only the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains for the team of skipper Virat Kohli, coach Ravi Shastri and the selectors to decide on who they wish to pick for the position. And one man who is definitely in the running is Rajasthan Royals skipper Ajinkya Rahane.
The Mumbaikar isn't over thinking about the World Cup bus. For him, the process is more important than the final result and he wants to focus on doing well in the IPL as he feels that it will automatically take him closer to the goal.
“The approach won't be any different with the World Cup spot looming because at the end you are playing cricket, be it the IPL or any other tournament. You have to score runs and do well for the team. The most important thing will be to think about the Rajasthan Royals rather than thinking too much about the road ahead. See, if I do well in the IPL, the World Cup (slot) will automatically come.
“I feel it is important to express yourself and not take any undue pressure thinking about things which aren't in your control. The focus is the IPL,” he said.
While Rahane and the Royals missed the services of Smith the last time around, the skipper said that the team was really looking forward to welcoming the former Australia skipper this year. In fact, even the Australian team management is looking at Smith to perform well and make a swift return to the side for the World Cup.
“We are all very excited to have him back. Initially, we didn't know if he will be able to make it or not (due to the elbow injury). But when we were told he is coming, that was a boost because his experience and records are unbelievable. He has the ability to win the team matches and that is important for any team,” he said.