Former India captain Rahane joins Leicestershire

Ajinkya Rahane pulled out of his last stint with Leicestershire on the eve of the One-Day Cup competition in 2023

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has again signed for Leicestershire for their defence of the One-Day Cup.

The 36-year-old was first recruited by the Foxes last summer, but never made an appearance for the county as he opted out of the deal.

He is now set to feature for the club in the 50-over competition starting in late July, with his stint in the East Midlands also taking in five County Championship fixtures.

"I’m really excited to have another opportunity to come to Leicestershire," Rahane told the club website.

"I followed the team’s results last year and was very impressed with what I saw. I’m hoping to enjoy my cricket and contribute to more success for the Club this season.”

Rahane joins Leicestershire as an international replacement for all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who is set to link up with South Africa for their Caribbean tour.

In Rahane, Leicestershire's batting line-up is bolstered by a player who has accrued more than 34,000 runs - including 66 centuries - across all formats in his career.

Leicestershire's director of cricket Claude Henderson is "thrilled" to bring Rehane to Leicestershire after it "didn’t quite work" the first time around.

"It’s a massive boost to have secured his services for the business end of this season," Henderson said.

“He holds immense experience and vital leadership qualities, which will be hugely beneficial to the team alongside his run-scoring ability. Ajinkya’s arrival also presents a fantastic opportunity for our batters to learn from one of the game’s best.”