Rohit Sharma pens heartfelt message after Ajinkya Rahane announces retirement from international cricket

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Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement decision from international cricket has marked the end of an era in Indian cricket. The veteran batter, who represented India across all three formats and played a key role in several historic victories, announced his retirement through an emotional social media video on Thursday. Soon after the announcement, tributes began pouring in from teammates, former cricketers, and fans, with former India captain Rohit Sharma leading the heartfelt messages.

Having shared the dressing room with Rahane for several years, Rohit acknowledged the immense hard work, discipline, and professionalism that defined the Mumbai batter’s international career. His emotional tribute quickly resonated with fans, who reflected on the duo’s long journey together in Indian cricket.

Shortly after Rahane confirmed his retirement from international cricket, Rohit took to X to congratulate his longtime teammate on an outstanding career. The India ODI captain praised Rahane’s dedication and professionalism, highlighting the commitment that helped him become one of India’s most dependable batters in the longest format.

Rohit’s tribute was one of many heartfelt messages from the cricket fraternity. Former India captain Virat Kohli also congratulated Rahane, describing him as his “favourite Test batting partner” while praising his safe hands in the slip cordon and his immense contribution to Indian cricket.

“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.”

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

— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) July 30, 2026

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Rahane represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is between 2011 and 2023, scoring a combined 8,414 international runs, including 15 centuries and 51 half-centuries across formats. His finest achievements came in Test cricket, where he amassed 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46, establishing himself as one of India’s most reliable overseas performers. Rahane produced several memorable innings in difficult conditions and played an integral role in India’s rise as a dominant Test side alongside stalwarts such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Rahane also enjoyed an outstanding record as India’s Test captain. He led the team in six Tests, remaining unbeaten with four victories and two draws. His most iconic leadership moment came during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, when he guided an injury-hit Indian side to a remarkable 2-1 series victory in Australia, one of the greatest overseas triumphs in the nation’s cricketing history.

While his retirement brings the curtain down on an illustrious international career, Rahane leaves behind a legacy built on resilience, calm leadership, and several unforgettable performances that will continue to be remembered by Indian cricket fans.

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