"Closer to Brendon McCullum's style of batting," Morgan On Rahane's New Approach
Ajinkya Rahane has reinvented his T20 game in IPL 2023 (IPLT20.com)
Indian cricketer, Ajinkya Rahane, has impressed the cricket world with his revamped T20 batting style for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023.
In Sunday’s clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that CSK won by 49 runs, Rahane hit an unbeaten 71 off just 29 balls, including five sixes that left the crowd in awe. His performance at the iconic Eden Gardens helped CSK post a record total of 235 for 4 in 20 overs.
Former England captain Eoin Morgan has praised Rahane's new approach to the game, comparing it to that of former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum.
"He has completely reinvented himself. This is closer to Brendon McCullum's style of batting than Ajinkya Rahane's,” remarked Morgan in an interview with Jio Cinema.
Morgan was impressed by the Mumbai-based batter's ability to combine his stunning strokeplay with new-age shots, which he believes are both elegant and skilful.
The former England captain credited Rahane's impressive comeback to the freedom and support he has received from the CSK management.
"It just goes to show the value of freedom and license that Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni have given him. Some incredible shots he has been played. He hit a huge six (against Andre Russell). You have got to sit back and admire what they (CSK) have created,” added the Englishman.
The highlight of Rahane's innings against KKR was a sensational reverse scoop shot that left everyone speechless. The World Cup-winning captain was quick to applaud the CSK star's innovative shot-making skills.
"That shot. I have not seen anyone play something like this, not even someone like Jos Buttler," concluded Morgan.
It is pertinent to mention the 34-year-old seasoned batter had struggled in IPL 2022 for the KKR, scoring just 133 runs at a strike rate of about 100.
However, he has turned things around in IPL 2023 for his new franchise, amassing 209 runs in just five matches at a staggering strike rate of 199.
Rahane's performance for CSK has been nothing short of impressive, and his new T20 batting style has certainly caught the attention of the cricket world. As the IPL 2023 season progresses, CSK fans will expect to see more of the veteran's innovative shot-making and skillful strokeplay on display.
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