Ajinkya Rahane retires from international cricket: 'Melbourne hero' reveals what's next after Team India

In a video shared on Instagram, Rahane confirmed that he was stepping away from all formats of international cricket in an emotional message addressed to his fans and followers.

'The timing is right'

Rahane began his farewell message by reflecting on the importance of timing, both in cricket and in life.

"The reality of life is that everything has a beginning and an end. When the time comes, you simply have to respect it and move forward. I have always relied on timing in my batting and I have always understood its importance.

"Today, I feel the timing is right for me to move on and announce my retirement from international cricket and all formats. From those early days travelling from Dombivli as a young boy just to practice, I gave this game everything I had. Every single day, every innings, every opportunity I got to bat, the dream was always to wear the India cap."

He added: "I lived by one simple rule, always put my country and my team ahead of myself. I played this game with complete honesty and I have always believed that if your intent is right, the game will always take care of you. Since the time I made my debut as a first-class cricketer, Indian cricket has grown tremendously and I feel so proud to have been a part of it over the last 20 years."

A new innings after retirement

Although his international playing career has come to an end, Rahane said his association with cricket will continue.

The right-handed batter said he intends to mentor the next generation of cricketers by sharing the experience and values he gained during his international career.

"While my chapter as an Indian cricketer comes to an end, my journey with the game doesn't. I look forward to helping the next generation, sharing the values this sport has taught me and giving back to the game that has given me everything," the former India vice-captain said.

Rahane's career in brief

Rahane made his international debut in 2011 and went on to represent India in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. However, it was in the longest format that he made his biggest impact.

He scored more than 5,000 Test runs, including 12 centuries, with memorable hundreds at iconic venues such as Lord's Cricket Ground, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Eden Gardens.

His defining moment came during India's historic 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia.

Leading the side after India's 36-all-out collapse in Adelaide and the departure of regular captain Virat Kohli on paternity leave, Rahane guided the team to a remarkable 2-1 series victory, highlighted by his match-winning century in Melbourne.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rahane enjoyed a long and successful career, representing multiple franchises including Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Rising Pune Supergiant, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings.

He was a key figure for Rajasthan Royals for several seasons and captained the franchise between 2018 and 2019.

After reinventing his T20 game, Rahane enjoyed a remarkable resurgence with Chennai Super Kings in the 2023 season, playing several match-winning cameos as the MS Dhoni-led side lifted its record-equalling fifth IPL title.

He later joined Kolkata Knight Riders, adding experience and stability to their batting unit.

Known for his calm temperament, elegant stroke play and exceptional slip fielding, Rahane earned a reputation as one of India's most dependable overseas performers and a selfless team player who often delivered under pressure.

He also captained Mumbai to the Ranji Trophy title in the 2023-24 season, further underlining his leadership credentials in domestic cricket.