SRINAGAR: Former India batter and captain Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday announced his retirement from international cricket and all formats, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished 17-year career during which he established himself as one of India’s most dependable Test players.
The 38-year-old, who represented India in 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 Twenty20 Internationals, announced his decision through a social media post, saying the time had come to move on.
“Today, I feel the timing is right for me to move on and announce my retirement from international cricket and all formats,” Rahane said.
Rahane’s international career yielded 8,414 runs in 195 matches, including 5,077 runs and 12 centuries in 85 Test matches. Widely regarded for his sound technique, composed temperament and outstanding slip fielding, he remained a key figure in India’s red-ball set-up for over a decade.
His most celebrated achievement came during the 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, when he led an injury-hit Indian side to a historic 2-1 series victory after the team had been bowled out for 36 in the opening Test. Rahane finished his captaincy stint unbeaten, recording four wins and two draws in six Tests as India’s captain.
In a video shared on Instagram, Rahane reflected on his decision, saying every journey has its conclusion.
“The reality of life is that everything has a beginning and everything has an end. When the time comes, you simply have to respect it and move forward. I have always relied on timing in my batting and have always understood its importance,” he said.
Recalling his cricketing journey, Rahane said he had devoted himself completely to the game from his early days travelling from Dombivli for practice, with the dream of representing India.
His final Test appearance came during India’s 2023 series against the West Indies, while his last ODI was against England in 2018. He continued to feature prominently in domestic cricket, leading Mumbai until the 2024–25 season.
Signing off his announcement, Rahane wrote: “Cap 278 signing off. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. Forever grateful.”
Rahane also received the Arjuna Award during his career, ending his international journey with a reputation for resilience, selflessness and leadership under pressure.
