Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned more than 15 years.
The 38-year-old revealed his decision through a video message on social media, stating that the time was right to move on from international cricket and all formats. His final appearance for India came during the second Test against the West Indies in Port of Spain in July 2023.
Rahane made his international debut in 2011 after consistently excelling in domestic cricket for Mumbai.
Known for his:
- Calm temperament.
- Solid technique.
- Dependable middle-order batting.
- Strong performances in overseas conditions.
Rahane became an integral part of India’s successful Test side during one of the team’s most successful eras.
Reflecting on his journey, he said that representing India was always his greatest dream and that he always placed the team ahead of personal achievements.
Over his international career, Rahane represented India across all three formats.
His career statistics include:
Test Cricket
- Matches: 85
- Runs: 5,077
- Batting Average: 38.46
- Centuries: 12
One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Matches: 90
- Runs: 2,962
Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Matches: 20
- Runs: 375
His contributions were particularly valuable in challenging overseas conditions, where he often delivered under pressure.
One of the defining chapters of Rahane’s career came during India’s 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
After regular captain Virat Kohli returned home following the Adelaide Test, Rahane assumed captaincy under difficult circumstances.
Highlights of that remarkable tour included:
- A match-winning century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
- Calm leadership through an injury-hit squad.
- India’s memorable 2–1 Test series victory.
- The historic win at The Gabba, ending Australia’s long unbeaten run at the venue.
As India’s Test captain, Rahane led the team in six Tests, winning four and drawing two, remaining unbeaten as captain.
Although leadership opportunities were limited, Rahane earned widespread praise for his composed captaincy, tactical awareness, and ability to inspire teammates.
His quiet leadership style became one of the defining aspects of his cricketing legacy.
Even after his international appearances became less frequent, Rahane remained a key figure in domestic cricket.
Among his notable achievements:
- Led Mumbai to its 42nd Ranji Trophy title during the 2023–24 season.
- Continued playing leadership roles in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
- Captained franchises including Kolkata Knight Riders, while previously leading Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants.
His continued involvement reflected his enduring commitment to Indian cricket.
While announcing his retirement, Rahane said his journey with cricket would continue through mentoring and supporting the next generation of players.
He expressed his desire to give back to the sport by sharing the values and experiences he gained throughout his career.
