Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Former India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has revealed that his decision to join the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) was set in motion on the very day he announced his retirement from international cricket.
The veteran batter, who recently called time on a distinguished India career, will represent Amsterdam Flames in the inaugural edition of the franchise league, scheduled to be held across Ireland and the Netherlands from August 26 to September 20.
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Speaking to PTI in an interview facilitated by the ETPL, Rahane said the opportunity arrived almost immediately after he retired from international cricket, prompting him to consider the next chapter of his career.
“When I announced my retirement, I think the same day this opportunity came up. I took a day to probably think through it. Steve (Waugh), personally, called me and asked me if I’m interested to play for his team,” Rahane said.
The 38-year-old admitted the conversation with the former Australia captain played a significant role in his decision to sign for the Amsterdam-based franchise.
“I’ve got a lot of experience after playing cricket for so many years with a certain attitude and mindset. I thought it’s a great opportunity for me to go out there, probably create an impact globally and share my experience with other players. So I’m really looking forward to this stint with the ETPL,” he added.
BUILDING CRICKET IN EUROPE
Rahane believes the league can play an important role in accelerating cricket’s growth across Europe, particularly in countries such as Ireland and the Netherlands, which have steadily improved on the international stage.
“Ireland recently won the series against India. Netherlands, again, on and off, they’ve been doing really well. I’ve played many matches against them, especially in World Cups. The passion they have for cricket and their hunger to learn and improve is amazing,” he said.
The former India vice-captain feels the biggest benefit of the ETPL will be the exposure it provides to local players.
With international stars such as Steve Smith and Mitchell Marsh expected to feature, while coaching legends Rahul Dravid, Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden are also associated with the competition, Rahane believes young European cricketers will have a unique opportunity to accelerate their development.
“This gives them exposure to play with international players. When you play with international players, individually you learn a lot. That’s why I said this is a great platform for them,” Rahane said.
“You never know which door will open for the players. It is a great start.”
WAUGH’S ENDORSEMENT
Rahane’s arrival has also delighted Amsterdam Flames co-founder and Chief Cricket Officer Steve Waugh, who believes the former India captain embodies everything the franchise wants to stand for.
“Rahane represents everything you want in a professional cricketer – skill, resilience, humility and leadership,” Waugh said.
“I’ve seen first-hand the composure and leadership he brings under pressure, and those qualities help shape winning cultures. His experience, leadership and character will be invaluable as we build Amsterdam Flames into one of Europe’s premier cricket clubs.”
Amsterdam Flames CEO Tim Thomas echoed those sentiments, describing Rahane’s signing as a landmark moment for the franchise.
“This is about much more than adding an outstanding cricketer. It is about establishing the standards, culture and ambition that will define our club for years to come,” Thomas said.
For Rahane, the move marks the beginning of a new chapter. While his international career may have come to an end, the former India captain is eager to use his experience to leave a lasting impact on a competition hoping to establish itself as Europe’s premier T20 league.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
