Former India cricketer Ajinkya Rahane recently took on an interesting challenge by selecting his underrated ODI XI, bringing together some of the finest players from different cricketing nations. While putting together an all-time ODI team is relatively straightforward, identifying players who often went unnoticed despite their remarkable contributions makes the exercise far more challenging. Rahane, however, came up with an intriguing combination of legendary batters, versatile all-rounders and accomplished bowlers during a conversation with Cricbuzz.

His selection featured several familiar names, including Suresh Raina, Aravinda de Silva and Andrew Flintoffalongside players who perhaps did not always receive the recognition their performances deserved in the 50-over format.

Graeme Smith and Nathan Astle open Ajinkya Rahane’s underrated ODI XI

Rahane began his selection with an interesting opening combination, bringing together former South Africa captain Graeme Smith and New Zealand batting great Nathan Astle.

Smith was renowned for his leadership qualities and ability to provide solid starts, while Astle was an aggressive batter capable of changing the complexion of an innings. Both enjoyed successful international careers, although their contributions in ODI cricket sometimes received less attention compared to other celebrated players of their respective generations.

At number three, Rahane picked India’s Raina, followed by Sri Lankan legend De Silva at number four. Raina was an important member of India’s limited-overs setup and delivered several memorable performances, particularly in pressure situations.

Despite his contributions to Indian cricket, he has often been considered one of the underrated batters of his era.

De Silva, meanwhile, was instrumental in transforming Sri Lankan cricket. One of the standout performers during Sri Lanka’s historic 1996 ODI World Cup triumph, he established himself as a match-winner with both bat and ball.

For the wicketkeeper’s role, Rahane went with South African great Mark Boucher. Although names like MS Dhoni and Adam Gilchrist generally dominate discussions around legendary ODI wicketkeepers, Boucher’s numbers make him a compelling choice.

He finished his ODI career with 424 dismissals, including 402 catches and 22 stumpings.

Andrew Flintoff and Robin Singh make the all-rounders’ list

Rahane’s selection became even more interesting when he moved to the all-rounders. He included England’s Flintoff and former India cricketer Robin Singh in his XI. Flintoff was one of England’s most influential all-rounders, capable of producing important contributions with both bat and ball.

His aggressive approach and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him a valuable asset.

Robin, on the other hand, was a dependable performer for India during the 1990s. His athletic fielding, useful bowling and ability to contribute with the bat made him an important part of the Indian team, even though he rarely received the same attention as some of his contemporaries.

Shane Bond and Chaminda Vaas complete the bowling attack

For the bowling department, Rahane selected two spinners and two fast bowlers. New Zealand’s Daniel Vettori and England’s Graeme Swann were his choices in the spin department.

The pace attack featured New Zealand speedster Shane Bond and Sri Lankan left-arm legend Chaminda Vaas. Bond’s exceptional pace and wicket-taking ability made him one of the most dangerous fast bowlers of his generation, while Vaas consistently troubled opposition batters with his swing, accuracy and variations.

Ajinkya Rahane’s underrated ODI XI: Graeme Smith, Nathan Astle, Suresh Raina, Aravinda de Silva, Mark Boucher (wk), Andrew Flintoff, Robin Singh, Daniel Vettori, Graeme Swann, Shane Bond, Chaminda Vaas