New Delhi: Former and current Indian cricketers, including Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Virender Sehwag, paid tribute to Ajinkya Rahane after the veteran batter announced his retirement from international cricket and all formats on Thursday.
Rahane made his decision public through an emotional video shared on Instagram, bringing an end to a nearly two-decade international career that included 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is for India. His retirement prompted messages from several former teammates and prominent figures in Indian cricket.
Shikhar Dhawan Recalls Rahane’s Calm Leadership
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan shared a heartfelt message recalling his experiences with Rahane on international tours, in dressing rooms and during partnerships.
Dhawan praised Rahane’s composed nature as both a captain and teammate, while highlighting his commitment to India throughout his career.
“Jinks kitne tours, kitne dressing rooms, kitni partnerships… aur kitni yaadein.”
Dhawan also wished Rahane well for the next chapter of his life after cricket.
Mohammed Shami Praises Rahane’s Career
India pacer Mohammed Shami described Rahane’s career as one built on class, discipline and commitment to the national team.
“A career built on class, discipline, and unwavering commitment comes to a close.”
Shami thanked Rahane for his contributions in the Indian jersey and wished him success in his next chapter.
Jasprit Bumrah Highlights Rahane’s Grace and Humility
Jasprit Bumrah also congratulated Rahane and recalled sharing the Indian dressing room with the former captain. Bumrah highlighted the memories they created together and praised the way Rahane conducted himself throughout his career.
“The grace and humility with which you’ve carried yourself throughout your career have been truly inspirational.”
Bumrah wished Rahane the best for everything ahead following his retirement announcement.
Harsha Bhogle Praises Rahane’s Leadership in Australia
Cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle highlighted Rahane’s character, loyalty and leadership, particularly his role in India’s historic Test series victory in Australia during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Bhogle said Rahane would be remembered especially for the leadership that helped India achieve what he described as the country’s greatest away series win in Australia. He also suggested that Indian cricket should continue to utilise Rahane’s qualities after his playing career.
Virender Sehwag Calls Rahane One of India’s Most Underrated Cricketers
Former India opener Virender Sehwag described Rahane as one of the most underrated cricketers and praised his calm and composed approach to the game.
Sehwag particularly recalled Rahane’s leadership during India’s historic overseas Test series triumph in Australia and wished him success in the next phase of his life.
“Calm, Solid. Kabhi shor nahi kiya, aur apna best karta raha.”
Ajinkya Rahane’s International Career in Numbers
Rahane finished his Test career with 5,077 runs in 85 matches and 144 innings. He scored 12 centuries and 26 fifties at an average of 38.46 and a strike rate of 49.50.
In ODIs, Rahane played 90 matches and 87 innings, scoring 2,962 runs. His record included three centuries and 24 fifties, with an average of 35.26 and a strike rate of 78.63.
Rahane also represented India in 20 T20Is, scoring 375 runs in 20 innings. He made one fifty in the format and finished with an average of 20.83 and a strike rate of 113.29.
Rahane’s Test Captaincy Record
Rahane’s leadership record in Test cricket remained unbeaten. He captained India in six Tests, recording four wins and two draws. According to the supplied information, he had the highest win percentage among Indian Test captains with at least five matches.
His captaincy included India’s memorable comeback victory in Melbourne during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India subsequently completed a historic series triumph at the Gabba, ending Australia’s long unbeaten run at the venue and winning the series 2-1.
Rahane had also led India to a Test victory against Australia in Dharamshala in 2017 and guided the team to a win over Afghanistan in 2018.
Rahane’s Retirement Brings an End to International Career
Rahane’s retirement closes a significant chapter in Indian cricket after almost two decades at the international level. His career included major Test performances, leadership responsibilities and a historic series victory in Australia.
Tributes from Dhawan, Shami, Bumrah, Sehwag and Bhogle reflected the respect Rahane earned for his temperament, leadership and contribution to the Indian team.
