Ajinkya Rahane, an experienced player with 85 Tests and 90 ODIs to his name, scored a brilliant 102 runs off 192 balls, hitting 13 fours and a six. His innings were key during a crucial partnership of 183 runs for the fourth wicket with Australian Peter Handscomb.
The seasoned Indian batsman achieved his 40th First-Class century as Leicestershire fought hard to prevent defeat against Glamorgan in their County Championship Division Two match on Sunday. Rahane's contribution became even more significant as the team sought to salvage a draw after Glamorgan’s Colin Ingram amassed a personal best of 257 runs without being dismissed at Sofia Gardens.
By the end of the third day, Rahane was not out on 47 while Handscomb remained on 33, with Leicestershire at 144 for 3 and trailing by 155 runs when bad light interrupted play, leaving 21.2 overs to go. By lunch on the final day, Leicestershire had advanced to 271 for 4, needing just 28 more runs to require Glamorgan to bat again.
Both Rahane and Handscomb benefited from dropped catches by Glamorgan’s leg-spinner Mason Crane, who let two opportunities slip while bowling, which could impact Glamorgan's chances of victory as they had declared at 550 for 9, establishing a lead of 299 runs.
When Rahane walked to the crease, Leicestershire was struggling at 74 for 3. He and Handscomb worked together to sustain the team's hopes of a draw. Rahane utilised the cut shot effectively, hitting consecutive fours to not only secure his first century for Leicestershire but also to solidify the team's position.
Having already scored 12 centuries in Test matches and three in ODIs, Rahane had made 42 runs off 67 balls in the first innings before eventually falling to Kiran Carlson.