Update on entire IPL 2019 schedule, Dhoni-Pant comparisons and more - Cricket News Today, 12th March 2019

#3 Rahane needed for World Cup, says Vengsarkar

Rahane hasn't played an ODI since last year

Ajinkya Rahane's absence from the ODI setup has surprised former India captain Dileep Vengsarkar, who is of the opinion that the batsman should have been part of the five-match ODI series against Australia.

According to Mumbai Mirror, the former Chairman of Selectors is of the belief that Rahane can bring his middle-order stability from the Test arena to the ODI format as well.

“I feel by ignoring talented and experienced Ajinkya, the Indian think tank is doing grave injustice to him. He is a proven batsman in the English conditions and an outstanding fielder too”.

“He will give the middle order the much-needed solidity besides the option as an opening batsman too as he has the experience of opening and also batting at No 4. Mind you, it’s not a Twenty20 tournament but the 50-over World Cup where building a team total will decide the fate of the teams. We need a total of at least 280 in every game," Vengsarkar added.

Rahane last played an ODI for India in February 2018.