How strong you are mentally is very important: Rahane

The newly appointed Test vice-captain Rahane says being mentally strong and focused is crucial.

"Technique is very important, but I think more than technique how strong you are mentally, how focused you are is very important. I feel that 85 per cent of the game is a mind game," Rahane was quoted as saying by bcci.tv.

Rahane spoke ahead of the India's tour of the West Indies.

"While I work and focus on my technique during the off season or before a series, how tough I make myself mentally at the same time is important."

Speaking about the long tour of the Caribbean, the right-handed batsman said, "The tour to West Indies isn't going to be any different in that sense. I will be preparing as per the requirements there and I will be looking to contribute to the team's cause," he said.

"I don't keep goals of runs or hundreds because I feel that if you are chasing such goals then sometimes the mind runs ahead into the future. What I always want is to think about what is going on in this moment. I will look to give my best and will be happy when I can contribute to the team's Test success."

India will be playing four Tests in the West Indies.