Ajinkya Rahane announces retirement, ends a decade-long international career

On Thursday, Ajinkya Rahane announced via an Instagram video that he is stepping away from international cricket, ending a career that spanned more than ten years. He expressed difficulty holding back tears while thanking fans for their unwavering support. Rahane’s record includes 5,077 Test runs at 38.46, 2,962 ODI runs at 35.26 and 375 runs in 20 T20Is, with a debut against England in 2011 and a final Test against the West Indies in 2023.

He recalled leading an injury-hit side to a 2-1 series victory in Australia during the 2020-21 tour, a defining moment in his tenure. While his playing days for India are over, he pledged to contribute to the game by guiding the next generation and sharing the values cricket taught him. The farewell concluded with gratitude toward the Indian cricket community, emphasizing that his heart remains with the fans.