Rahane Dedicates Ton To People Who Backed Him Through Tough Times

India vice-captain Rahane dedicated his memorable knock to all those who have stood by him during the past two years when he went through a rough patch

India vice captain Ajinkya Rahane made his glorious comeback by scoring his first Test hundred in two years during India’s 318-run win against Windies in the first Test. Rahane dedicated his memorable knock to all those who have stood by him during the past two years when he went through a rough patch. "This hundred was special. My time with Hampshire really helped me. I dedicate this hundred to the people who backed me, supported me when I was going through a rough patch," Rahane said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "It feels special. Getting this hundred after 29 or 30 innings. I've been getting 70s, but getting a 100 means a lot to me," Rahane said after India dismissed the hosts for 100 in 26.5 overs in the second innings. Rahane, who was adjudged Man of the match for his knock, also termed his 81 in the first innings as crucial considering the situation of the match when he went out to bat. "The first innings was crucial after 20 for 3 (25 for 3). We needed a partnership, and the partnership between Rahul and me was crucial. I think first day the wicket was damp. West Indies bowled really well in that session. But it was important to play as many balls as possible without thinking about runs," said the 31-year-old vice-captain. "We wanted to bat 90-100 overs in the first innings knowing runs would come. In the 2nd innings, me and Virat wanted to get a good partnership. We wanted to just bat, bat and bat." India will take on the West Indies in the second Test on August 30.