India’s dependable Test batter Ajinkya Rahane retires
India’s veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career that spanned more than 15 years. The 38-year-old made the announcement through a heartfelt social media post on Thursday, saying the time had come for him to move on from the international stage.
Rahane, who made his international debut in 2011, represented India in 85 Test matches, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals. Widely regarded as one of India’s most dependable overseas batters, he scored 5,077 runs in Tests, including 12 centuries, and played several match-winning innings in challenging overseas conditions.
One of the defining moments of Rahane’s career came during India’s historic 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia. After India suffered a heavy defeat in the opening Test at Adelaide, Rahane took over the captaincy in the absence of Virat Kohli and led an injury-hit Indian side to a remarkable 2-1 series victory, including the famous win at the Gabba. His century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the Boxing Day Test remains one of the finest innings of his career.
Known for his calm temperament and understated leadership, Rahane earned immense respect from teammates and cricket experts alike. Although he gradually lost his place in the Indian side, he continued playing domestic cricket and franchise leagues while remaining closely associated with the game.
In his retirement message, Rahane thanked his family, coaches, teammates, fans and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He said wearing the Indian jersey was the greatest honour of his life and that he would always cherish the memories created while representing the country.
While Rahane’s international career has come to an end, his legacy as one of India’s finest Test batters and the captain who scripted one of the country’s greatest overseas triumphs will continue to inspire future generations. His composure under pressure, consistency overseas and selfless commitment to the team have secured him a special place in Indian cricket history.
