Anything can happen, says Rahane on India recall

A cricket player's fortunes can swing drastically very quickly. Given that he played his 82nd and final Test against South Africa in January of last year, Ajinkya Rahane might not have a contract with India. He isn't getting any younger either at 34. In fact, Moeen Ali may find it difficult to keep his spot in the Chennai Super Kings XI after he returns to the team after recovering from his sickness.However, the absence of Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, as well as the subsequent dearth of middle-order options, has perhaps created a window for the Mumbaikar to be recalled to India's lineup for the World Test Championship match against Australia.Making his debut for CSK after being told just before the toss that he would replace Moeen who was unwell, Rahane smashed 61 off 27 balls to script his team’s seven-wicket win over the Mumbai Indians.The former India captain acknowledged that there is "still a long way to go" before the excitement around his exploits dies off, but deep down he is determined to not "give up" on the idea of making a comeback.“Still a long way to go, today I was not sure about my place in the eleven. I got to know just before the toss, for me it is about playing one game at a time and staying in the moment. Anything can happen…as I always say, I will never give up. For me, it’s all about playing with enjoyment, and playing with passion. Whatever format I play, it’s all about giving my best every time rather than thinking ‘what if?’ Or thinking about the future which is not in my control. For me, it’s all about giving my best every time and trying to be as positive as possible and, whenever I get an opportunity, I should be ready for that,” he said.