Sunil Gavaskar Pays Tribute as Ajinkya Rahane Retires From International Cricket

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane officially retired from international cricket on July 30, 2026, bringing an end to a career that encompassed 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is. Following the announcement, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar paid tribute to the 38-year-old’s contributions, emphasizing that Rahane’s remarkable leadership and selfless play deserved far greater credit than they received during his international career.

What Happened

Ajinkya Rahane stepped away from international cricket after a 13-year journey that began in 2013. His career included pivotal leadership roles during critical moments for the Indian national team. In his column for Mid-Day, Sunil Gavaskar reflected on Rahane’s career, comparing his recognition to that of former captain Rahul Dravid. Gavaskar pointed out that Rahane’s achievements as captain were frequently underappreciated despite an outstanding win record.

Gavaskar noted that Indian cricket culture often lavishes credit on individual batters and bowlers during victories, while reserve blame for captains and coaches following losses. He highlighted Rahane’s captaincy statistics, which stand at four victories and zero losses across six Test matches.

Key Highlights

• Career Statistics: Rahane concluded his international career with 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is after entering the international arena in 2013.
• Unbeaten Captaincy Record: Led India in six Test matches, securing four wins and two draws with no defeats.
• 2020-21 Australia Comeback: Took charge of the team after India suffered a collapse to 36 all out in Adelaide, leading the side alongside coach Ravi Shastri.
• Leading by Example: Scored a crucial century in the match immediately following the Adelaide Test to spark India’s revival.
• Gabba Victory: Guided an injury-hit Indian squad to a historic win at Australia’s fortress, the Gabba, completing a 2-1 Test series triumph.
• Peer Respect: Gavaskar noted Rahane’s humility and selfless approach, stating he is among fewer than a dozen cricketers without an enemy in the game.

Why This Matters

Rahane’s defining moment as captain unfolded during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia under severe adversity. After the team was bowled out for 36 in the first Test, regular captain Virat Kohli returned home for the birth of his first child, and a wave of injuries depleted the squad. Rahane took over the vice-captaincy leadership, scoring a century in the second Test and eventually guiding India to its first-ever victory at the Gabba to seal a 2-1 series win. Gavaskar noted that this triumph proved no individual is indispensable in cricket and showcased Rahane’s ability to navigate the team through deep crisis.

What to Watch Next

Following his retirement announcement on July 30, 2026, no further official announcements regarding future playing or coaching commitments were specified in the source material.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ajinkya Rahane retire from international cricket?

Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket on July 30, 2026.

What was Ajinkya Rahane’s Test captaincy record?

Rahane served as Test captain in six matches, finishing with four wins, zero losses, and two draws.

What comments did Sunil Gavaskar make about Rahane’s legacy?

Sunil Gavaskar stated that Rahane’s exceptional leadership did not receive the applause it merited, comparing him to Rahul Dravid, and lauded his humility and selfless contribution to Indian cricket.

Source: CricTracker