Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane says he went through one of the toughest phases of his career while travelling with the national team but not being selected to play. In his account, Rahane describes spending an extended period in the role of a reserve player—saying he was the “12th man for two years”—and how that situation created frustration. He recalls the experience of being part of the squad during international assignments while sitting out matches, which he says was emotionally difficult. Rahane’s comments focus on the challenge of staying prepared and motivated despite not getting game time, and on the impact of repeatedly travelling with the team without participating in matches. The remarks are presented as a personal reflection on a professional setback and the pressure that comes with being close to the playing XI but unable to contribute on the field. Rahane does not attribute the situation to any single incident, instead portraying it as a sustained period of limited opportunities.