Former India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to one of the country's most respected careers in the modern era.
The 38-year-old batter confirmed his decision through social media, thanking teammates, coaches, family and fans for supporting him throughout his journey. Rahane's retirement marks the end of an international career that featured memorable performances in Test cricket and one of India's greatest overseas triumphs.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Ajinkya Rahane retires from international cricket.
Former India vice-captain ends a distinguished career.
Led India to the historic Gabba Test series victory in Australia.
Scored over 5,000 Test runs with 12 centuries.
Known for outstanding overseas performances.
Tributes pour in from fans and former cricketers.
Ajinkya Rahane officially announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday, saying that the time had come to "move on" after proudly representing India for over a decade.
Rahane made his international debut in 2011 and went on to represent India in Tests, One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals. While he played important knocks across formats, he earned his biggest reputation in Test cricket, particularly in overseas conditions.
One of the defining moments of Rahane's career came during India's 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. After India suffered a historic collapse in Adelaide and regular captain Virat Kohli returned home, Rahane took charge of the team. Under his calm leadership, India scripted a remarkable 2-1 series victory, capped by the famous win at the Gabba, ending Australia's long unbeaten run at the venue.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Rahane's retirement closes an important chapter in Indian cricket. His calm leadership, resilience and memorable performances overseas made him one of India's most respected Test cricketers. The 2020–21 Australia series victory remains one of the defining moments of his legacy.
Rahane's century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the Boxing Day Test is widely regarded as one of the finest innings of his career and played a crucial role in India's comeback during that series. Throughout his career, he was known for his composed batting, dependable slip fielding and ability to perform in challenging overseas conditions.
According to official career records, Rahane finished with:
- 85 Test matches
- 5,077 Test runs
- 12 Test centuries
- 90 ODIs
- 20 T20Is
His final international appearance came during India's Test tour of the West Indies in 2023.
Ajinkya Rahane was regarded as one of India's most reliable middle-order batters during the 2010s. He scored centuries in difficult overseas conditions, including Australia, England, New Zealand and South Africa, and played an important role in several historic Test victories.
Although he continued performing in domestic cricket and franchise leagues, he did not return to the national team after 2023.
Official Statements / Verified Information
- Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket.
- He represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is.
- Rahane scored 5,077 Test runs, including 12 centuries.
- He captained India to the historic 2020–21 Test series victory in Australia.
- His retirement announcement was made through an official social media message.
What Happens Next ?
Rahane has retired only from international cricket. As of now, he has not announced retirement from domestic or franchise cricket, meaning he could continue playing in domestic competitions or T20 leagues if he chooses.
