India, Aug. 7 -- Ajinkya Rahane has reflected on one of the toughest phases of his career, recalling the frustration of travelling with India's Test squad without finding a place in the playing XI. Although he made his international debut in white-ball cricket in 2011, Rahane had to wait another two years before earning his maiden Test cap. During that period, he spent a long time as the team's 12th man, remaining on the sidelines despite being part of the squad. The experienced batter eventually established himself as a key figure in India's middle order and enjoyed a successful Test career. Across 85 Tests and 144 innings, Rahane scored 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46 and a strike rate of 49.50, registering 12 centuries and 26 half-ce...