Three-time ODI captain Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in a short span of 20 years of distinguished cricketing career. The former India captain made his emotional move via social media on Thursday and stated that it was now the time to let go.
Rahane leave the cricket for India and played 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is, and is also a long serving star in the Indian Premier League. He had a calm personality, technique and leadership which were particularly appreciated in the campaigns conducted overseas in India.
A remarkable Test career
Rahane made his debut against Australia in 2013 and has started his career in the Indian Test side. In his Test career, he has hit 5077 runs with a batting average of 38.46 with 12 centuries.
He was best at the crease when he was away from home, scoring eight of his eight hundreds in Tests outside India. He established himself as one of India’s most consistent overseas batters with his performance in Australia, England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and the West Indies.
Captain of India’s famous Australia triumph
Rahane’s biggest success is during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia. India were bowled out for 36 runs in Adelaide and Rahane stepped into the captaincy to lead the team to an amazing series win.
He has led India in six Tests and has won four of them. His ability to lead the team through the series, especially Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, is one of the most iconic moments in his international career.
A long association with white-ball cricket
Rahane has also played in three big World Cups, in 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups and 2015 ODI World Cup for India. He struggled in limited-overs cricket later in his career, but was still a respected figure in domestic and franchise cricket.
He made his T20I debut in 2016 and last ODI at the same year 2018. However, Rahane played on domestic level as well and was a regular IPL face for many years.
Rahane’s IPL journey
During his career Rahane has appeared in the first season of the IPL in 2008 and had a stint with six different teams. He had an excellent season with Rajasthan Royals in 2012 and 2015, with over 500 runs in each season.
Rahane also made herself captain in 2026, scoring 335 runs for Kolkata Knight Riders. He ended his IPL career with 5,367 runs, missing the last season 2010, after he played in the IPL’s inaugural edition.
Mumbai cricket pays tribute
After Rahane’s retirement was made public, Mumbai Cricket Association president Ajinkya Naik applauded the former batsman, saying it was the end of an important era in Indian cricket.
Naik spoke of Rahane’s unwavering dedication, composure and commitment to the sport and said that his contribution to Mumbai cricket had made him one of the “best ambassadors” for the state. Rahane has become an important figure for the younger players as a product of Mumbai’s domestic system who has gone on to take his talent to international cricket.
Rahane ready to give back to cricket
Rahane assures that his association with cricket won’t come to an end after his retirement. He said he wanted to pass down his knowledge, and his desire to help the next generation and make a contribution to the sport in another capacity.
He also thanked the BCCI, Mumbai Cricket Association and teammates, coaches, IPL franchises, family, friends and supporters who played a role all throughout his career. Rahane is a player, who has represented India and Mumbai for a number of years, and he can now look forward to starting the next phase of his cricketing career.
A memorable career comes to an end
Perseverance and modesty have been the hallmarks of Rahane’s journey, from making her debut at the Dombivli and playing for India to winning the series in Australia, which marked a pivotal moment.
Overall, Rahane has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket with 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, 20 T20Is, and 212 IPL appearances. As he handed over his message to fans, he demonstrated his modesty as was his style throughout his career: “India’s No. 278 has signed off.
