Virat Kohli backs out of form Ajinkya Rahane

Indian captain Virat Kohli backed the out-of-form batter Ajinkya Rahane ahead of the South Africa Test series, saying the team can't react like an outsider.

While talking to the media after the end of the second Test, Kohli emphasised that Rahane needs assurance.

Kohli added that he can't judge Rahane's form and only the individual knows what he is going through.

Also read: Rahul Dravid hints at tough selection calls ahead of South Africa tour

While making a case for Rahane, Kohli said that he should be backed for his past good record and the team wouldn't like to press the panic button at the moment.

Notably, Rahane is going through a rough patch of form and managed to score only 411 runs in the last 12 Tests at an average of 19.57. Rahane's selection for South Africa series is under the scanner owing to his poor performances.