‘Innings of a Lifetime’ - Twitter Applauds Rahane’s Brilliant 100

Rahane, who came into bat at 61/2, batted for 200 deliveries for his unbeaten 104 as rain stopped play.

Ajinkya Rahane congratulated by Steve Smith after his century on Day 2 at Melbourne. 

Image: PTI

India captain Ajinkya Rahane put on absolute masterclass in batting in Test cricket on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test against Australia to put his side in control of the contest.

Rahane, who came into bat at 61/2, batted for 200 deliveries for his unbeaten 104 as rain forced play to be stopped a little early.

The stand-in skipper had all eyes on him as to how he would lead the side in the absence of Virat Kohli and further depleted by the injury to Mohammed Shami. While he won over the pundits with his aggressive captaincy on Day 1, it was his solid batting that kept Australia at bay the next day and earned him more praise from all corners.

Rahane and Jadeja helped lift India to a 82-run lead at stumps. Here’s a look at some of the best reactions to the century from Rahane, his 12th and possibly one that will remain close to his heart for a long long time to come.

India ended the second day's play, comfortably placed at 277/5, and 82 runs ahead of the hosts Aussies who were bowled out for 195 in the first innings on Saturday.