Ajinkya Rahane's decision to retire from international cricket on Thursday has triggered a wave of tributes from Indian sports personalities, with Sachin Tendulkar leading the emotional farewell by recalling the qualities that defined the veteran batter's remarkable career.
Sachin Tendulkar, who shared both the Mumbai dressing room and the crease with Rahane early in his career, praised the latter's composure under pressure in a heartfelt message. "Congratulations on a remarkable career, @ajinkyarahane88. The first time we batted together for Mumbai, I saw someone who never chased moments. They came to you because you were willing to do the hard yards for the team," Tendulkar wrote on X.
Tendulkar's praise for Rahane's composure was not limited to their early days together. He also reflected on Rahane's defining captaincy stint in Australia, where he led an injury-ravaged Indian side to a memorable 2-1 series victory in 2020-21. "That same quality defined your finest hour in Australia. You showed that composure isn't the opposite of aggression. It is often what gives a team the confidence to be fearless. Congratulations on a wonderful career! Wishing you and your family all the very best," Tendulkar added.
Rahane's leadership during India's historic 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia was a testament to his ability to perform under pressure. As Tendulkar pointed out, Rahane's composure was a key factor in the team's success.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also paid tribute to Rahane, describing him as "one of India's most committed cricketers" who gave "yeoman service to Mumbai and Indian cricket." Shastri's tenure as coach coincided with Rahane's finest chapter as captain, where he led the team to a memorable 2-1 series victory in Australia.
Rahane's achievements on the field are a testament to his dedication and hard work. He retires with 5,077 Test runs, including 12 centuries, and an unbeaten record as India's Test captain, having registered four wins and two draws in six matches.
The cricket fraternity has come together to celebrate Rahane's legacy, with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virender Sehwag, Shikhar Dhawan, and Irfan Pathan among those who have praised the veteran batter. As Pujara put it, Rahane's career was one that he could be "incredibly proud of."
Rahane's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, but his legacy will live on through the many memories he created during his remarkable career.
Source: Yahoo Sports