'My mother used to Babysit to support family, bought second hand car while playing for India': Ajinkya Rahane

Growing up in a lower-middle-class household, Ajinkya Rahane learned the importance of financial prudence early in life.

The Indian player has taken a long journey in his life, and cricket has pulled him out of his financial struggles. Despite that, the value of money and the urge to spend wisely remains the same.

Recently, in an interview with Indian Express, Rahane revealed the constraints he faced during his formative years. The India batter revealed his mother had to find a source of earning to bear the expenses of their family.

"I used to come from Dombivli, the train journey was the most challenging for me, and I used to travel alone from the age of eight because my father had to go to the office," Rahane recalled.

"My mother used to babysit to earn extra money because my father's salary wasn't enough to make ends meet. Those memories are in my mind, and that is why I try to be grounded. This fame and money have come only due to this game," he added.

Even after establishing himself as a top cricketer, Rahane remained conscious of his spending habits. And even now, the concept of luxury doesn't coincide with Rahane.

"I bought a car very late in my life. I used to take a lift from Nilesh Kulkarni, Avishkar Salvi, or Pravin Tambe. I bought a second-hand WagonR when I played for India. People said bada car le (buy a bigger car), but for me, it was about travelling in comfort. I wanted to invest wisely. After two years, I bought a Honda," he continued.

His frugality stems from his understanding of cricket's unpredictability. "I knew this money was coming because of my cricket. This is where my family values came in. They never said don't spend, but they only said if it's needed, do it."

In the glamorous world of cricketers, Rahane manages to lead a simple life. The childhood struggles, the understanding and realization from that make him a class apart.