Rahane’s distinguished career recognised
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has congratulated Ajinkya Rahane on his distinguished international career following his retirement from international cricket. Over a period of nearly a decade and a half, Rahane was regarded as one of India‘s most reliable performers. His calm demeanor, resilience, and ability to perform in challenging situations earned him respect from teammates, opponents, and cricket enthusiasts.
During a period when India established itself as a strong Test team, Rahane became a dependable batter, particularly in overseas conditions. He was known for his elegant style and technical soundness, possessing the temperament required to succeed in demanding circumstances. His centuries at Lord’s, Wellington, Melbourne, Kingston, and Durban are noted as significant overseas hundreds by an Indian batter, showcasing his adaptability and ability to handle pressure.
Mr. Mithun Manhas, BCCI President, stated that Rahane’s career exemplifies putting the team first. He added that Rahane earned his reputation through performances in some of the toughest conditions in world cricket and became one of India‘s most dependable batters overseas. Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, thanked Rahane for his service, noting that he played cricket with sincerity and integrity.
Leadership during Border-Gavaskar Trophy
A significant period in Rahane’s career was during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. He assumed the captaincy after India faced a difficult moment, having been dismissed for 36 in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Despite the challenges and restrictions posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rahane led the team, scoring a century at the MCG that helped level the series.
Under Rahane’s leadership, India overcame injuries and adversity to secure a series victory, culminating in a win at The Gabba, which ended Australia‘s 32-year unbeaten record at the venue. As captain, Rahane remained unbeaten in six Test matches, securing four wins and two draws. His leadership was characterized by clear thinking, sound judgment, and the belief he instilled in his teammates.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, under whom Rahane achieved many of his Test successes, also paid tribute, describing him as one of India‘s most committed cricketers who provided significant service to Mumbai and Indian cricket. Shastri recalled Rahane stepping in for Virat Kohli after the Adelaide Test in 2020 and leading an injury-affected Indian side to a 2-1 series victory in Australia.
Tributes from cricket fraternity
Rahane’s decision to retire from international cricket prompted numerous tributes from prominent figures in Indian sport. Sachin Tendulkar led the tributes, recalling Rahane’s qualities. Tendulkar, who shared the Mumbai dressing room and the crease with Rahane early in his career, congratulated him on a remarkable career. He noted that Rahane never chased moments, and they came to him because he was willing to work hard for the team.
Tendulkar further commented on Rahane’s captaincy in Australia, stating, “You showed that composure isn’t the opposite of aggression. It is often what gives a team the confidence to be fearless.” He was at the other end when Rahane made his Test debut against Australia in Delhi in 2013.
Other members of the cricket fraternity also offered their congratulations. Cheteshwar Pujara congratulated his long-time batting partner on a career to be proud of, mentioning the honour of sharing partnerships and memories. Former opener Virender Sehwag described Rahane as “one of the most underrated cricketers” and highlighted his role in leading India to its greatest overseas Test series win, noting that he “never made any noise and kept giving his best.”
Shikhar Dhawan remembered Rahane as a composed leader and dependable teammate, while former all-rounder Irfan Pathan thanked him for creating “outstanding Australian memories.” Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu also joined the tributes, recalling Rahane’s 103 at Lord’s in 2014, calling it an innings of character and class. Rahane retires with an unbeaten record as India‘s Test captain, having registered four wins and two draws in six matches.
Source: bcci.tv
Arjun Sharma
Sports Reporter