Ajinkya Rahane Recalls How Ben Stokes’ 2017 IPL Advice Shaped His Social Media Strategy

Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane has detailed how advice from England all-rounder Ben Stokes during the 2017 Indian Premier League season influenced his personal off-field routines and digital presence on tour.

What Happened

Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Ajinkya Rahane reflected on his time sharing the Rising Pune Supergiant dressing room with Ben Stokes during the 2017 IPL edition. Stokes joined the franchise after being purchased for Rs 14.5 crores at the auction held on February 20, joining a squad where Rahane was in his second year. During their time together, Stokes advised Rahane to avoid looking at social media while competing in tournament phases.

Rahane adopted that guidance by establishing a strict routine for series and tours. He deletes social media applications from his personal phone during series and relies on a dedicated team to manage his account logistics, approvals, and posts. To stay occupied away from digital distractions while in his hotel room, Rahane focuses on reading books, streaming shows on Netflix or other applications, talking with family, and ironing his kit for the next day.

Key Highlights

• Ben Stokes was bought by Rising Pune Supergiant for Rs 14.5 crores at the February 20, 2017 auction.
• The 2017 IPL season was Rahane’s second year with the Rising Pune Supergiant franchise.
• Stokes recommended during IPL 2017 that Rahane refrain from viewing social media during matches.
• Rahane deletes social media apps during competitive series to protect his focus from external commentary.
• A management team handles Rahane’s digital posts and administrative tasks while he is on tour.
• Rahane’s room routine involves reading, streaming, speaking with family, and ironing his match clothing.

Why This Matters

Managing mental wellbeing and avoiding online distractions are key factors for athletes competing at high levels. Rahane noted that while the temptation to read positive comments exists after performing well, public reactions are temporary. Delegating administrative account management allows players to keep accounts active while maintaining private, low-distraction environments during demanding cricket schedules.

What to Watch Next

Rahane continues to follow this structured digital routine during competitive phases, maintaining off-field focus by relying on his management team for public updates while keeping his personal focus strictly on match preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ben Stokes share this advice with Ajinkya Rahane?

Ben Stokes advised Ajinkya Rahane during the 2017 IPL season when both players were teammates at Rising Pune Supergiant.

How much was Ben Stokes acquired for in the 2017 IPL auction?

Ben Stokes was purchased by Rising Pune Supergiant for Rs 14.5 crores at the auction held on February 20, 2017.

How does Ajinkya Rahane manage his social media during a series?

Rahane deletes social media applications from his phone during series, allowing his support team to manage posts and account operations on his behalf.

Source: crictracker.com