Published on July 30
GUWAHATI: A dependable middle-order batter known for absorbing pressure and anchoring innings, Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday announced his retirement from international cricket and all forms of the game, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career spanning over a decade.
The 38-year-old former India batter made the announcement through a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, saying the time had come to move on from the sport that defined his life.
"I've always relied on timing in my batting, and I've always understood its importance. I feel the timing is right for me to move on and announce my retirement from international cricket and all formats. From those early days travelling from Dombivli as a young boy just to practice, I gave this game everything I had," Rahane said.
Widely regarded as one of India's most reliable middle-order batters in the longest format, Rahane represented the country in 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals between 2011 and 2023. He scored 5,077 runs in Tests at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries. In ODIs, he amassed 2,962 runs at 35.26 with three hundreds, while in T20Is he scored 375 runs at an average of 20.83.
Rahane last played a Test match against the West Indies in July 2023. His final competitive appearance came in the Indian Premier League, where he captained the Kolkata Knight Riders.
The defining chapter of Rahane's career came during India's historic 2020-21 tour of Australia. After regular captain Virat Kohli returned home following the opening Test, Rahane took charge of the side and led an injury-ravaged Indian team to a remarkable 2-1 Test series victory. The triumph, achieved despite India being bowled out for 36 in the first Test and missing several key players, remains one of the greatest achievements in Indian cricket history.
Known for his calm temperament, elegant strokeplay and ability to perform under pressure, Rahane leaves behind a legacy as one of India's finest overseas performers and a dependable team man whose contributions extended far beyond statistics.
PHOTO COURTESY: Ajinkya Rahane FB PAGE