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In a big update, Indian cricketer and Test mainstay Ajinkya Rahane has pulled out of his stint at the Leicestershire County Club. The Team India cricketer, who made his return in Test cricket in June 2023 following his snub from the BCCI Central Contract for more than a year, has pulled out of his County Cricket stint citing ‘hectic schedule’.
Rahane who was expected to link up with the County Club for the One-Day Cup, starting next month has opted out citing a short break. Leicestershire in a statement explained that his arrangement changed “due to increased international commitments.” The statement further added, “He has now expressed his desire to take a break from cricket during August and September.”
Leicestershire’s Director of Cricket Claude Henderson also opened up on this. In an official statement he said, “We are fully understanding of Ajinkya’s situation. He has experienced a hectic schedule in recent months, both n Indi and travelling with the national team, and we accept his wishes to recover and spend some time with his family.”
It is to be noted that Rahane returned in the Indian colours during the WTC Final 2021-23 following an impressive run in the yellow jersey for Chennai Super Kings. He thereafter was named the deputy to Rohit Sharma for the West Indies Test series, which Idia won 1-0.
Peter Handscomb to replace Rahane at Leicestershire
After Peter Handscomb extended his stay at the County Club, he is set to replace Rahane for the One-Day Cup starting next month.
“We are delighted Peter is staying on with the team. He brings many qualities alongside his batting and wicketkeeping, including strong leadership, which is a massive help to Lewis (Hill) and the rest of the guys in out changing room,” Leicestershire’s Director of Cricket Claude Henderson added.
