Past and present Indian cricketers congratulated Ajinkya Rahane after the veteran batsman announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday. Rahane, in a video posted on his Instagram, said the time was right for him to “move on”, bringing the curtain down on a memorable international career.The 38-year-old has represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. The Mumbai batter ended his Test career with 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries. In ODIs, he scored 2,962 runs in 90 matches at an average of 35.26, with three centuries and 24 fifties. He also played 20 T20Is, scoring 375 runs.One of the biggest highlights of Rahane’s career came in 2021 when he captained an injury-hit Indian team to a famous 2-1 Test series win in Australia after Virat Kohli returned home after the Test start.Soon after Rahane announced his retirement, many former and current cricketers took to social media to thank him for his contribution to Indian cricket and wish him well for the future.“Jinks kitne tours, kitne dressing rooms, kitni partnerships… aur kitni yaadein. Captain ke roop mein bhi tujhe utna hi composed dekha, aur teammate ke roop mein bhi utna hi dependable. Bahar se hamesha calm… andar se sirf India ke liye ladne wala sa chapter bhi Abstrak love, bro,” wrote Shikhar Dhawan on Instagram.
“A career built on class, discipline, and unwavering commitment is coming to an end. Thank you for every run, every fight, and every memorable moment in the Indian jersey. Wishing you success in the next chapter. @ajinkyarahane,” Shami wrote while sharing an Instagram story.
“Congratulations @ajinkyarahe on a great career. Great to share the dressing room with you and make so many great memories. The grace and humility you bring to your career is truly inspiring. Best wishes for all that lies ahead,” wrote Jasprit Bumrah.
“One of the most underrated cricketers, and the man who led India to its biggest ever overseas Test series win @ajinkyarahane88. Calm, Solid. Kabhi shor nahi kiya, aur apna best karta raha. Like against SA in Delhi, 2015 after an amazing first innings, hope you have a great second innings, Ajinkya, “Sehwagkya,” Sehwagkya.“Congratulations @ajinkyarahane88 on your wonderful career. Thanks for some great memories in Australia on the cricketing field. Good luck for the future buddy,” said Irfan Pathan. “Ajinkya Rahane, congratulations on an amazing international career @ajinkyarahane88. From magnificent centuries in challenging overseas conditions to leading India to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in Australia, your calm leadership, fortitude, and unwavering commitment have inspired millions. your immense contribution to Indian cricket. Wishing you all the best for the next chapter of your journey,” wrote former India cricketer Dodda Ganesh.