BCCI honours Ajinkya Rahane’s international cricket career
Distinguished International Career Concludes
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has extended its congratulations to Ajinkya Rahane following his decision to retire from international cricket. Rahane’s career, spanning nearly a decade and a half, saw him become a reliable performer for India, earning respect from teammates, opponents, and fans for his calm demeanor, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure.
During a period when India solidified its position as a leading Test team globally, Rahane emerged as a dependable batter, particularly in overseas conditions. His elegant style and technical proficiency allowed him to excel in demanding situations. Rahane consistently delivered significant innings when India faced pressure away from home. His centuries in Lord’s, Wellington, Melbourne, Kingston, and Durban are remembered as defining overseas hundreds by an Indian batter, showcasing his adaptability and ability to rise to the occasion.
Virat Kohli, a former teammate, paid tribute to Rahane, referring to him as his “favourite Test batting partner” and “the safest pair of hands in slips.” Kohli shared an Instagram post with a picture of himself and Rahane in India’s Test whites, praising his contributions to Indian cricket. Rahane announced his retirement from all international formats through an emotional video shared on Instagram.
Captaincy and Key Achievements
One of the most notable periods in Rahane’s career was during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. He assumed captaincy after India was dismissed for 36 in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, a challenging moment for the team. Despite the difficulties and restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rahane led from the front with a century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), which helped level the series.
Under Rahane’s leadership, India achieved a significant triumph, overcoming injuries, inexperience, and adversity to secure a memorable series victory. This was highlighted by a historic win at The Gabba, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten record at the venue. Rahane captained India in six Test matches, remaining undefeated with four wins and two draws. His captaincy was characterized by clear thinking, sound judgment, and the confidence he instilled in his team. He also led India to a Test victory over Australia in Dharamshala in 2017.
As a senior member of the dressing room, Rahane was respected for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to the team. He led by example, earning admiration from teammates, opponents, and fans through his conduct both on and off the field. His batting was an extension of his character, and he earned his place through hard work in domestic cricket.
Statistical Overview and Tributes
Across his international career, Rahane accumulated more than 8,000 runs. However, the BCCI emphasized that his contributions extended beyond mere statistics. He provided stability to the Indian team, maintained composure during high-pressure moments, and led by example through his commitment to the sport. In Tests, Rahane played 85 matches and 144 innings, scoring 5,077 runs, including 12 centuries and 26 fifties, with an average of 38.46 and a strike rate of 49.50.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he participated in 90 matches and 87 innings, scoring 2,962 runs, with three centuries and 24 fifties, averaging 35.26 with a strike rate of 78.63. For Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), he played 20 matches, scoring 375 runs, with one fifty, at an average of 20.83 and a strike rate of 113.29.
Mr. Mithun Manhas, BCCI President, stated that Rahane’s career exemplifies putting the team first. He highlighted Rahane’s performances in challenging conditions and his leadership during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy as a defining chapter in Indian cricket. Manhas congratulated Rahane on his distinguished international career and wished him future success.
Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, also praised Rahane, noting his pride in how he led India and played the game with sincerity and integrity. Saikia added that Rahane’s contributions, including important innings, thoughtful leadership, and setting an example for younger players, strengthened every team he represented. The BCCI expressed its gratitude for Rahane’s significant contributions to Indian cricket, noting that his professionalism, resilience, and sportsmanship have left a lasting impact and will continue to inspire young cricketers across the country.
Rahane’s career concluded more than two years after his last appearance for India.
Source: bcci.tv
