Ajinkya Rahane retires from international cricket

Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Thursday, July 30, 2026, bringing an end to a distinguished 15-year career. The 38-year-old batter made the announcement through an emotional video posted on social media, stating he felt the timing was right to move on.

Rahane represented India in 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals, and 20 Twenty20 Internationals. He last played for the national side during the 2023 away Test series against the West Indies. In his retirement message, Rahane reflected on his journey from a young boy traveling from Dombivli for practice to achieving his dream of wearing the India cap. He emphasized a career built on putting country and team first, playing with honesty, and trusting that right intent would be rewarded by the game.

His international career is highlighted by significant achievements, most notably his leadership during India's historic 2-1 Test series victory in Australia during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Taking over captaincy mid-series, Rahane led an injury-depleted side to a comeback win, a campaign widely regarded as one of Indian cricket's greatest overseas...