Ajinkya Rahane's retirement from international cricket has drawn heartfelt tributes from some of his closest teammates and former India stars, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
The 38-year-old called time on his international career on Thursday, July 30, bringing an end to a journey that spanned nearly 15 years.
Virat in his tribute highlighted Rahane's efforts as a fielder and called him the safest pair of hands in the slips and his favourite Test batting partner.
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
Rohit, with whom Rahane spent majority of his growing-up years in cricket, recalled their time they spent together sharing dressing room. Rohit also highlighted Rahane's commitment and professionalism.
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.
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) July 30, 2026
Congratulations on a wonderful career. Best wishes! @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/r7eXb1yrUz
Some of the other Indian cricketers who have wished Rahane well are Irfan Pathan and Yuvraj Singh.
Pathan thanked Rahane for his contribution as captain of the Indian Test team during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy which India won 2-1.
Congratulations @ajinkyarahane88 on your wonderful career.
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 30, 2026
Thank you for some outstanding Australian memories on the cricketing field. Good luck for the future buddy.
Yuvraj on his part called Rahane one of the finest from this generation to represent the country.
Rahane leaves international cricket after representing India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. He amassed over 8,400 runs with 15 centuries across the three formats. He played international cricket for 15 years, having made his debut for India in a T20I match against England on August 31, 2011.
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