Battling a finger damage, India’s saviour Ajinkya Rahane on Friday dispelled doubts about his involvement with the bat in his workforce’s second innings of the World Test Championship closing in opposition to Australia in London. Rahane, who made a memorable 89 in his comeback Test after 18 months, hoped that the finger damage he sustained on Thursday wouldn’t have an effect on his batting within the second innings. “Don’t think it will affect (my) batting (in India’s second innings),” Rahane informed the broadcaster on the finish of the third day’s play.

Rahane confronted 129 balls and struck 11 fours and a six throughout his keep within the center. His 109-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Shardul Thakur (51 off 109) saved India within the recreation however Australia nonetheless managed to take a large 173-run first-innings lead.

At stumps, Australia prolonged their result in 296 runs by reaching 123 for 4 in 44 overs of their second innings. “Happy with the way I batted. Had a good today. We were looking to get 320-330 but overall we had a good day. Bowling wise we bowled well. Everyone chipped in.” Referring to Cameron Green‘s unimaginable catch to dismiss him, Rahane stated, “That was a really good catch. We all know he’s a really good fielder. Has a big reach.” He had no qualms in admitting that Australia have their nostril forward.

“Australia slightly ahead in the game. For us it’s important to be in the moment, play session by session. First one hour will be crucial tomorrow. We know funny things can happen. Jadeja bowled really well, footmarks helped him against the left-hander. Still feel wicket will help seam bowlers,” Rahane stated.

Rahane was struck on his proper hand’s index finger off a Pat Cummins bouncer on the second day of the match. He instantly felt ache and known as on the physio for remedy.

Thakur additionally stated Rahane will “definitely bat” within the second innings.

“He (Rahane) got a bad blow on his finger. It does not look too bad, it is being assessed. He did not go out in the field as it would have been risky and he had already fractured the same finger previously. He will definitely bat.”