India’s star Ajinkya Rahane becomes 1st overseas cricketer to join Hampshire

Ajinkya Rahane Thursday became the first overseas player from India to sign for Hampshire and he will feature in County Championship matches throughout May, June and the start of July, subject to visa clearance.

The 30-year-old Indian will replace South Africa batsman Aiden Markram, who will end his stint with Hampshire at the conclusion of the Royal London One-Day Cup group-stage to join up with his national side ahead of the World Cup, the County club said. The right-hand top-order batsman has a wealth of international experience having made 56 Test and 90 ODI appearances since making his debut against Australia in March 2013.

“I am excited to be the first Indian to play for Hampshire, a county which has a glowing reputation. I hope to score runs and win as a team and would like to thank BCCI for allowing me to play,” Rahane said in the statement.