Sunil Gavaskar makes big statement on Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy after his retirement

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Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement from international cricket has prompted tributes from across the cricketing fraternity, with several former players looking back on his contributions to Indian cricket. Among them was batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who highlighted one aspect of Rahane’s career that he believes has often been overlooked.

Writing in his column, Gavaskar praised Rahane’s leadership credentials and reflected on his remarkable captaincy record, particularly during one of the most challenging phases in India’s Test history. The former India captain also drew comparisons with another Indian great while explaining why Rahane deserved far greater appreciation.

Gavaskar hailed Rahane’s record as India’s Test captain, pointing out that the Mumbai batter led the side in six Tests, winning four and losing none. The former India captain also spoke about how captains are often judged unfairly in Indian cricket.

“His record as a skipper is exceptional, with four wins out of six and no losses. Like Rahul Dravid, who also had some terrific wins under his captaincy but never got the credit he deserved, so also Rahane’s leadership hardly got the applause that it merited. This is typical of Indian cricket. When the team wins, all praise goes to the individual achievers, be it batters and bowlers, but when the team loses, the captain and the coach get the blame,” he said.

Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket on July 30, 2026, bringing the curtain down on a career that saw him represent India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is.

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Gavaskar also looked back at India’s memorable 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia, where Rahane took over the captaincy after Virat Kohli returned home following the opening Test. After India were bowled out for just 36 in Adelaide and suffered several injury setbacks during the series, Rahane guided the team to a remarkable 2-1 series victory, including the famous win at the Gabba.

He further praised the team’s resilience during the final Test despite several senior players being unavailable due to injuries. Concluding his tribute, Gavaskar described Rahane as one of the most selfless cricketers to have represented India.

“Rahane leaves the game with his head held high and the sincere thanks of cricket lovers for the totally selfless way he played the game. It’s not of many cricketers that it can be said that they did not have a single enemy in the game. There are perhaps less than a dozen to the best of my knowledge and experience. Ajinkya Rahane can take his place there with his typical humility,” he concluded.

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