Virat Kohli’s deputy in Test format, Ajinkya Rahane was really good in the middle-order in World Cup 2015 in Australia. With concern surrounding No.4 in recently concluded World Cup 2019 in the UK, the right-handed batsman was really missed but since he was not a regular feature in limited over format, he was omitted from the World Cup format.

While talking to India Today about not being a part of World Cup squad, Rahane said, “Personally, everyone dreams to be part of World Cup squad. Mine was also the same. You tend to get disappointed when you don't make the World Cup team but it's important to move on.”

After missing out on the ICC mega event, the 31-year-old made his county debut and became the first Indian player to play for Hampshire. The day Men in Blue landed in England to begin their World Cup campaign, Rahane smashed a superb ton on his debut for Hampshire.

When asked about the county stint, the Mumbai based batsman said, “When I played 2 months in county cricket, I learnt a lot. Yes, it was a dream to be part of the World Cup team. But, I am focussing on taking everything on a positive note and moving on. I feel I am starting my preparations for the next World Cup from now itself.”

When asked about getting over the World Cup snub, Rahane said, “After the World Cup also, there is life, there are challenges. There is World Test Championships. I am focussed on contributing to the team and taking the team forward.”

“Whenever an opportunity comes to play ODI and T20I cricket, I will work hard and make it count. I am actually lucky that people are noticing that I am good enough to play the limited-overs formats as well,” he added.

(With India Today inputs)