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, particularly noted for his calm demeanor, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. His contributions earned him respect from teammates, opponents, and cricket enthusiasts.
During a period when India solidified its position as a leading Test team globally, Rahane emerged as a crucial batter, especially in overseas matches. His technical proficiency and composure allowed him to succeed in challenging conditions. He frequently delivered significant innings when India faced adversity away from home.
A defining captaincy stint
A highlight of Rahane’s career was his captaincy during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. He took over leadership after India‘s challenging start in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, where the team was dismissed for 36. Amidst the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic, expectations for India were low.
Rahane led by example, scoring a century at the MCG that helped level the series. Under his leadership, India overcame injuries and inexperience to secure a memorable series victory. This triumph included a historic win at The Gabba, ending Australia‘s 32-year unbeaten record at the venue. Rahane remained undefeated as captain in six Test matches, securing four wins and two draws.
His leadership was characterized by clear thinking, sound judgment, and the confidence he instilled in his team. As a senior member of the dressing room, he was respected for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to the team’s success. He set an example both on and off the field, earning admiration from various quarters.
Tributes from the cricketing fraternity
Mr. Mithun Manhas, BCCI President, praised Rahane’s career as an example of prioritizing the team. He highlighted Rahane’s performances in tough conditions and his dependable batting overseas. Manhas specifically mentioned Rahane’s leadership during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy as a defining chapter in Indian Cricket, commending his guidance of a young team through extraordinary circumstances to a famous victory.
Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary of the BCCI, also acknowledged Rahane’s contributions, stating that he played cricket with sincerity and integrity. Saikia noted that Rahane’s impact extended beyond his runs, through important innings, thoughtful leadership, and the example he set for younger players, making every team he represented stronger.
Rahane’s decision to retire prompted numerous tributes from prominent figures in Indian sport. Sachin Tendulkar led these tributes, reflecting on Rahane’s qualities. Tendulkar recalled batting with Rahane for Mumbai, observing his dedication to the team. He noted that Rahane’s composure during his captaincy in Australia demonstrated that composure can enable fearlessness.
Tendulkar was also present when Rahane made his Test debut against Australia in Delhi in 2013. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, under whom Rahane achieved significant Test successes, also paid tribute, describing him as a committed cricketer who provided valuable service to Mumbai and Indian cricket. Shastri emphasized Rahane’s role in the 2-1 series victory in Australia after Virat Kohli‘s departure.
Cheteshwar Pujara congratulated his long-time batting partner on a career to be proud of, expressing honor in their shared partnerships and memories. Former opener Virender Sehwag labeled Rahane as one of the most underrated cricketers, crediting him with leading India to its greatest ever overseas Test series win, noting his quiet dedication. Shikhar Dhawan remembered Rahane as a composed leader and reliable teammate, while former all-rounder Irfan Pathan thanked him for creating “outstanding Australian memories.”
Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu also joined the tributes, recalling Rahane’s 103 at Lord’s in 2014, an innings she described as showcasing immense character and class. Rahane concludes his international career with more than 8,000 runs across formats, including 5,077 Test runs with 12 centuries. His calm leadership, resilience, and ability to perform in overseas conditions remain defining aspects of his career, earning him widespread respect in the cricketing world.
The BCCI expressed its gratitude for Rahane’s immense contributions to Indian Cricket, stating that his professionalism, resilience, and sportsmanship have left a lasting impact and will continue to inspire young cricketers.
Source: bcci.tv
