Virat Kohli Celebrates Ajinkya Rahane's Remarkable Cricket Journey

Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of an impressive career. Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant have both shared heartfelt tributes, celebrating Rahane's contributions to Indian cricket. Kohli referred to him as the 'safest pair of hands in the slips' and his favorite Test partner, while Pant praised his leadership and calmness. Rahane's notable achievements include leading India to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in Australia. Discover more about his journey and the tributes from his teammates.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2026, 21:28 IST

A Heartfelt Farewell to Ajinkya Rahane

New Delhi: Virat Kohli, the former captain of India, praised Ajinkya Rahane as the 'most reliable fielder in the slips' and his preferred partner in Test matches, as he congratulated Rahane on his illustrious career following his retirement from international cricket.

Rahane, who famously captained India to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in Australia during the 2020-21 season, announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Thursday, concluding a career that lasted over ten years.

Kohli, who shared numerous unforgettable experiences with Rahane while representing India, expressed his admiration in a touching tribute to his former teammate.

“Jinks, congratulations on an incredible career, my friend. You have made significant contributions to Indian cricket, and you should take pride in your journey. The most dependable fielder in the slips and my favorite Test batting partner. Wishing you all the best. God bless,” Kohli shared on social media.

Jinks, congratulations on a great career, buddy. You’ve done wonders for Indian cricket, and you can be very proud of your journey. The safest pair of hands in the slips and my favourite Test batting partner. Wishing you well always. God bless. @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/bHGaas41gO

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 30, 2026

Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, also expressed gratitude towards Rahane for his contributions to the team, highlighting his calm demeanor, selflessness, and leadership skills.

“It was a pleasure to share the dressing room with you, Ajju bhai. You remained composed in every situation, selfless in every role, and a true leader. Thank you for everything you have done for Indian cricket. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors,” Pant tweeted.

It felt good to share the dressing room with you, Ajju bhai. Calm in every situation, selfless in every role and a leader by example. Thank you for everything you have done for Indian cricket. Wishing you nothing but the best for what’s next. @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/jpnapGGkHB

— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) July 30, 2026

Rahane made his debut for India during the 2011 tour of England and went on to play 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is. He amassed 5,077 runs in 144 Test innings, which included 12 centuries and 26 fifties, along with 2,962 runs in ODIs. His final appearance for India was in the 2023 Test series against the West Indies.

One of Rahane's most significant achievements as a Test captain was during the 2020-21 tour of Australia. After India suffered a collapse, being bowled out for just 36 runs in Adelaide and Kohli returning home, Rahane stepped up as captain and led the team to a remarkable 2-1 series victory.

This series featured India's famous eight-wicket win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the historic victory at the Gabba, where India broke Australia's stronghold to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.