India’s next World Test Championship (WTC) assignment, though, is only in December-January, a two-match series away in South Africa.
Leicestershire explained in a statement that Rahane’s arrangement with the county had changed “due to increased international commitments”, which had not been factored into his plans. “[He] has now expressed his desire to take a break from cricket during August and September,” they said.
Claude Henderson, Leicestershire’s director of cricket, said: “We are fully understanding of Ajinkya’s situation. He has experienced a hectic schedule in recent months, both in India and travelling with the national team, and we accept his wishes to recover and spend some time with his family.
“We have been in constant communication with Ajinkya and accept how situations can change quickly in cricket. He is extremely grateful for our understanding and still hopes to play for Leicestershire one day.
“Thankfully, we had planned for a situation like this, and we are delighted Peter is staying on with the team. He brings many qualities alongside his batting and wicketkeeping, including strong leadership, which is a massive help to Lewis [Hill] and the rest of the guys in our changing room.”
Rahane gave a good account of his form in the WTC final with scores of 89 and 46, but could only manage 3 and 8 in his two innings against West Indies.
Leicestershire’s One-Day Cup campaign starts with an away fixture against Surrey at The Oval on August 3. The competition clashes with the Hundred, meaning that most counties are without a number of first-team players.