Ajinkya Rahane Announces Retirement From International Cricket

Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket. He confirmed the decision through an emotional video message on social media, captioned "Cap 278 signing off."

Rahane made his India debut in 2011 and went on to play 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. He scored 5,077 runs in Tests at an average of 38.46, with a highest score of 188. In ODIs, he made 2,962 runs at 35.26, and in T20Is he added 375 runs at 20.83.

His biggest moment as a leader came in 2020-21. He stepped in as stand-in captain for an injury-hit India side touring Australia and led them to a stunning series win, one of the most celebrated results in Indian cricket history.

Rahane last turned out for India during the 2023 away Test series in the West Indies. He had continued to hold onto hopes of an international comeback as recently as this year's IPL, but said the "timing feels right" to step away now.

In his message, Rahane thanked fans for their support through the highs and lows of his career. He said cricket had taught him that defeat is unavoidable, but that he always felt undefeated in the hearts of his supporters.