Mohali, Oct 20: After coming under a lot of fire for his recent performances Ajinkya Rahane finally proved his detractors wrong with his highest ODI score as India won the Mohali ODI and the five-match series against England with two more matches left to be played. Unfortunately though, while his knock set India up for a win, Rahane was dismissed on 91, nine short of what would have been a well-deserved century.

In the post-match media interaction Rahane spoke about his innings and expressed pride at being part of the ODI World Cup winning side.

On getting a start today and being able to make the most of it

The last few games were not very good for me. I was very determined for this game and practiced a lot. The team-management gave me good support and backed me a lot.

On the crucial partnership with Gautam Gambhir

He was batting really well. The partnership was really crucial. We decided to hang-in there and wait for the loose balls.

On what he did differently here from the first two games

I played my natural game. I was saying to myself, ‘just play positive’ [and] backed myself.

On whether he was enjoying the role of an opener

Yes, I am.

On the feeling in the dressing room and being part of a team that won the One-Day series

It is like a dream come true for me to play for India, World Champions.