Mumbai, Nov 5: On the back of his performances in the domestic circuit, Ajinkya Rahane has claimed a spot in the 15-man national squad named earlier today. The Mumbai youngster scored a century in the first innings against Railways in the Ranji Trophy game at the Wankhede Stadium and a quick 84 off 81 deliveries in the second innings. Although he was disappointed that he didn’t reach the three-figure mark in the second innings as well, Rahane is happy with his form and hopes to do well whenever an opportunity presents itself again.

Speaking to the media after the match, Rahane talked about his form and preparation going into the Test series against England.

Excerpts from his press conference:

On whether he was happy with the way he batted in the second innings

Yes in a way; but pretty much disappointed that I got out on 84. Getting 100 in each innings would have been a special thing, but I am happy with the way I was batting.

My aim is to improve every day. Mumbai is a kind of team where you learn something every day. There is responsibility on you after playing for two-three years. So, the more I get used to it and the more runs I can get, the better it will be for my confidence.

Is there any one person who has made a difference to your batting?

I have been with the Mumbai team and played under Pravin [Amre] sir, so his guidance has been very helpful. He had told me that scoring runs is the most important thing. If you score runs, no one can stop you. So, the more runs I score, the better it is for me.

On his batting position

As I told you earlier I am not thinking about any number, so it doesn’t matter. I just need to perform well whenever I get an opportunity.

On his batting so far

I have got three good innings and I am enjoying good confidence levels, so I am feeling good.

On tips he received from Tendulkar

In the first innings when I batted he gave me very important tips; like he told me to back myself and bat the way I have been batting before even if I am in my 90s.

On his personal preparation for facing the English attack

The Test match is starting from the November 15 [so] I am not thinking about that right now. I just want to prepare well myself and see what happens.

If you are playing international cricket, playing cricket at a higher level, then you need to be mentally prepared at all times. It is not necessary that you will play at a certain position. Your batting order can change depending on the situation. So, if you are mentally prepared, it doesn’t matter.