‘I have made mistakes’: Ajinkya Rahane chokes in emotion while announcing his retirement | Watch

Published 30 July 2026 · sports

Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket. He confirmed that the decision applies immediately across all formats. While making the announcement, the former

Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket. He confirmed that the decision applies immediately across all formats. While making the announcement, the former Team India captain choked in emotion. Rahane said his “timing” had guided his batting throughout his career. He felt the moment was right to step away now. He recalled travelling from Dombivli as a young boy. Practice sessions shaped his early dedication to the sport. Rahane said he always prioritised the country and the team over himself. He described playing the game with complete honesty throughout. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 Why did Ajinkya Rahane announce his retirement from international cricket? ⌵ Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement as he felt the timing was right for him to step away from the game, reflecting on his career's journey and his commitment to prioritizing the team and country. 2 How did Ajinkya Rahane feel during his retirement announcement? ⌵ During his retirement announcement, Ajinkya Rahane choked with emotion as he expressed gratitude and reflected on his journey, highlighting the joy of playing cricket and the support received from fans and family.

3 What are some key achievements in Ajinkya Rahane's career? ⌵ Ajinkya Rahane's career highlights include playing 85 Tests with 12 centuries, leading India to a historic Test series win in Australia, and participating in both the 2013 Champions Trophy victory and the World Test Championship finals. 4 What will Ajinkya Rahane do after retiring from international cricket? ⌵ After retiring, Ajinkya Rahane plans to mentor the next generation of players, sharing the values and lessons he learned throughout his cricketing journey. 5 How did Ajinkya Rahane show respect towards his opponents during his career? ⌵ Ajinkya Rahane demonstrated respect for his opponents by declining to cut a celebratory cake featuring a kangaroo decoration, symbolizing Australia's national pride, even after leading India to a series victory against them. Also Read | Ajinkya Rahane announces retirement from all forms of cricket Ajinkya Rahane credited Indian cricket's growth over the past 20 years. He expressed pride at being part of that journey. While his playing chapter ends, his cricket journey continues. He plans to mentor the next generation of players.

He wants to share the values the sport taught him. Rahane called his overall career an absolute honour. He reflected on both wins and losses throughout his career. The joy of playing brought him the greatest satisfaction overall. He specifically thanked the BCCI, the MCA, his teammates, and his coaches. The KKR captain also thanked every IPL franchise he represented over the years. It was the moment he expressed gratitude to his wife, Radhika, and family that he got emotional. He thanked his friends and everyone who consistently supported him. “Ajinkya means unbeatable, but cricket has shown me defeat many times. As cricketers, we fail more often than we succeed. My team has lost matches, I have made mistakes, but there is one place where I was never defeated. And, that was in your hearts,” Rahane said as he could not hold his emotions anymore. “You always accepted me as one of your own. Thank you for your love, your faith, and your support. Cap number 278, signing off,” he concluded. The Kolkata Knight Riders reacted, “Surely one of the best to don the Indian jersey.