Ajinkya Rahane Retirement: Virat Kohli Calls Him His Favorite Test Batting Partner, Sachin Tendulkar Pays Emotional Tribute

Former India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane received heartfelt tributes from cricket legends Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar after announcing his retirement from international cricket. Kohli described Rahane as his favorite Test batting partner, while Tendulkar praised the veteran batter for his selfless attitude and remarkable contribution to Indian cricket.

Virat Kohli Pays Emotional Tribute to Ajinkya Rahane

Virat Kohli congratulated Rahane on an outstanding international career, highlighting the trust and understanding they shared in Test cricket.

Posting on X, Kohli wrote that Rahane made an immense contribution to Indian cricket and called him "my favorite Test batting partner." He also praised Rahane's exceptional fielding skills, describing him as one of India's safest slip fielders.

Kohli wished Rahane success in the next chapter of his life after international cricket.

Kohli-Rahane Formed One of India's Best Test Partnerships

Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane built several memorable partnerships that played a crucial role in India's overseas and home Test victories.

Shared 10 century partnerships

Added 19 half-century stands

Registered their highest partnership of 365 runs against New Zealand in Indore

During that historic innings, Kohli scored 211, while Rahane produced a career-best 188, helping India dominate the match.

Sachin Tendulkar Praises Rahane's Team-First Mentality

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also congratulated Rahane, recalling the first time they batted together for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy.

Sachin said Rahane never chased personal milestones but always focused on contributing to the team's success. According to Tendulkar, that selfless attitude defined Rahane's greatest achievements, particularly his memorable performances during India's historic tour of Australia.

The Master Blaster added that Rahane proved patience is not the opposite of aggression—it often gives an entire team the confidence to play fearlessly.

Ajinkya Rahane Ends a Memorable International Career

Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket at the age of 38.

Between 2011 and 2023, Rahane represented India in:

85 Test matches

90 One-Day Internationals (ODIs)

20 T20 Internationals

Widely regarded as one of India's most dependable Test batters, Rahane played several match-winning innings both at home and overseas.

Rahane's Legacy in Indian Cricket

Rahane will be remembered for his calm temperament, reliable batting under pressure, outstanding slip catching, and inspirational leadership. His contributions during India's historic overseas victories, particularly in Australia, have secured his place among India's finest modern Test cricketers.

The emotional tributes from Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar reflect the immense respect Rahane earned throughout his distinguished international career.