Gavaskar hails Rahane as 'most complete Indian batsman'

New Delhi, Oct 10: Former India captain and legendary batsman Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on middle order batsman Ajinkya Rahane calling him 'India's most complete batsman' at present.

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Gavaskar lauded Rahane's incredible 188-run-knock against New Zealand in the first innings of third and final Test at Indore.

"Ajinkya Rahane is India's most complete batsman at this stage. Like Virat Kohli, he is never satisfied by what he does. I am sure Virat will acknowledge how important a role Rahane has played for India. When you have the confidence of your captain, you are motivated to do even better," Gavaskar told NDTV.

What makes this century special is the fact that Rahane was able to play the short ball well even after struggling during the first session.

He added 365 runs with skipper Virat Kohli (211) for the fourth wicket to help India pile up 557 for 5 against Kiwis on day two.

(Hundred at Indore Test will remain in my memory for long time: Rahane)

"Kohli and Rahane have batted New Zealand out of the park. It will be impossible for New Zealand to win this Test, unless they can come up with a miracle. Of course, they can still save the game. It's still a good wicket to bat on," he further added.

Rahane missed out on his first Test double ton but decimated New Zealand bowlers all through the day.

Even the 28-year-old Mumbai batsman termed his 188 as a "special one" which will be etched in his memory for a long time to come.

"This innings was really special and the partnership too (with captain Virat Kohli). We were 100 for 3 and from there getting 365 is really special," said Rahane, whose surpassed his highest Test score of 147 against Australia at Sydney in January of 2015.

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