The 38-year-old shared the announcement through a video on his YouTube channel (@ajinkyarahane88) on Thursday, July 30.

Rahane had been out of India’s plans for nearly three years, with his final international appearance coming in the second Test against the West Indies at Port of Spain in July 2023. While revealing his decision, he said:

"The reality of life is that everything has a beginning and everything has an end. When that time comes, you simply have to respect it and move forward. I’ve always relied on timing in my batting and I’ve always understood its importance. Today, I feel the timing is right for me to move on and announce my retirement from international cricket and all formats."

https://youtu.be/q2_7P1pN4qQ?si=vbmajs0xekBufp4N

The right-handed batter featured in 85 Tests for India, scoring 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46. His red-ball career included 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries, with a highest score of 188. In ODIs, Rahane played 90 matches, accumulating 2,962 runs at an average of 35.26 and a strike rate of 78.63, including three centuries and 24 fifties.

He also appeared in 20 T20Is, scoring 375 runs at an average of 20.83 and a strike rate of 113.29, with one half-century. Overall, Rahane finished his international career with 8,414 runs in 195 matches across formats, registering 15 centuries and 51 half-centuries.

Ajinkya Rahane opens up on life after retirement

In the same video, Ajinkya Rahane also spoke about his future aspirations, stating that he now wants to play a role in guiding the next generation. He said:

"While my chapter as an Indian cricketer comes to an end, my journey with the game doesn’t. I look forward to helping the next generation, sharing the values this sport has taught me and giving back to the game that has given me everything."

The 38-year-old also thanked the cricket boards, his teammates, coaches, IPL franchises, and his wife, Radhika Dhopavkar, for their unwavering support throughout his career. He said:

"To the BCCI, the MCA, my teammates, my coaches, every IPL franchise, to Radhika, my entire family, my friends, and everyone who stood by me, thank you. And a very special thank you to all the cricket fans who supported me through every highs and lows. Thank you for your love, your faith, and your support. Cap number 278 signing off."