5 memorable moments from the Rising Pune Supergiants-Gujarat Lions match that don’t fade away

Ajinkya Rahane’s steady innings

Rahane played an important knock for his side

One of Pune’s positives in an otherwise disappointing campaign this season has been the form of their openers - Ajinkya Rahane and Faf du Plessis. After the latter was ruled out of the IPL due to an injury, there were doubts whether Rahane would be able to keep up his form.

And the Indian opener answered his doubters in the best way possible. In the first match without Faf, Rahane ensured Pune did not miss the South African much with a steady knock of 53 in 45 balls.

With Steve Smith going all guns blazing, the 27-year-old provided the perfect anchor innings en route to yet another half-century. Ajinkya Rahane’s form is key for the Rising Pune Supergiants if they harbour hopes of making the playoffs this season.