Rohit Sharma Pays Tribute to Ajinkya Rahane Following Retirement Announcement

Rohit Sharma has expressed his heartfelt tribute to Ajinkya Rahane after the latter's retirement from international cricket. Reflecting on their years together, Sharma praised Rahane's dedication and professionalism. Rahane's impressive career spanned nearly two decades, during which he made significant contributions to Indian cricket, including memorable victories as a captain. This article delves into Rahane's achievements and the impact he made on the sport, inviting readers to explore his remarkable journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 04:52 IST

A Heartfelt Farewell from Rohit Sharma

In a touching tribute, former Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his admiration for Ajinkya Rahane after the latter announced his retirement from international cricket. Reflecting on their shared experiences in the dressing room, Sharma highlighted Rahane's dedication, discipline, and professionalism throughout his career.

Sharma commended Rahane's significant contributions to Indian cricket and extended his best wishes for the next phase of his life. "Having shared the dressing room for so many years, I truly appreciate the hard work you've put into your achievements. Your commitment and professionalism have always distinguished you. Congratulations on a remarkable career. Wishing you all the best!" Sharma conveyed in a post on X.

We’ve shared the dressing room for so many years and I know how much hard work has gone into everything you’ve achieved. Your commitment and professionalism have always set you apart.

Congratulations on a wonderful career. Best wishes! @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/r7eXb1yrUz

— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) July 30, 2026

On Thursday, Rahane shared an emotional video on Instagram announcing his retirement from all formats of international cricket, marking the end of a nearly two-decade-long career.

During his Test career, Rahane participated in 85 matches and 144 innings, amassing 5,077 runs, which included 12 centuries and 26 fifties, with an average of 38.46 and a strike rate of 49.50. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he played 90 matches and scored 2,962 runs across 87 innings, achieving 3 centuries and 24 fifties, averaging 35.26 with a strike rate of 78.63.

In the T20 format, Rahane played 20 matches and scored 375 runs, with one fifty, averaging 20.83 and a strike rate of 113.29. Notably, he maintained an undefeated record as a Test captain, with four wins and two draws, boasting the highest win percentage for any Indian Test captain with a minimum of five matches.

His captaincy included a memorable comeback victory in Melbourne and a historic win at the Gabba, which ended Australia's long-standing unbeaten streak at that venue during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India triumphed 2-1.

Rahane also led India to a vital Test victory against Australia in Dharamshala in 2017.