Virat Kohli paid an emotional tribute to Ajinkya Rahane after the veteran batter announced his retirement from international cricket on July 30. Taking to Instagram, Kohli shared a heartfelt message, describing Rahane as his favourite batting partner in Test cricket and wishing him success in the subsequent phase of his life.
Rahane served as India’s vice-captain during Kohli’s tenure as Test captain, with the pair forming a successful partnership each on and off the sector. They shared several memorable stands, including a record 365-run partnership against Latest Zealand in Indore in 2016. Earlier, the duo had also added 260 runs against Australia on Australian soil.
Looking back on their journey together, Kohli wrote on his Instagram story:
“Jinks, congratulations on an amazing profession, buddy. You’ve done wonders for Indian cricket, and you’ll be able to be very pleased with your journey. The safest pair of hands within the slips and my favourite Test batting partner. Wishing you well all the time. God bless.”
Virat Kohli’s Instagram story for Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement. pic.twitter.com/qomNU0uQQh
— Virat Kohli 18 (@viratkohlifc518) July 30, 2026
At any time when Virat Kohli was unavailable during his tenure as India’s Test captain, Ajinkya Rahane stepped in to guide the side. His finest moment as captain got here through the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, when he guided India to a historic 2-1 Test series victory over Australia on their home soil.
Rohit Sharma also paid tribute to Ajinkya Rahane on X, praising his calm leadership, memorable performances, and historic Test series win in Australia. He thanked Rahane for his immense contribution to Indian cricket and wished him well for the longer term.
We have shared the dressing room for therefore a few years and I know the way much exertions has gone into all the things you’ve got achieved. Your commitment and professionalism have all the time set you apart.
Congratulations on an exquisite profession. Best wishes! @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/r7eXb1yrUz— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) July 30, 2026
Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane Shared Three World Cup Campaigns
Along with their successful partnership in Test cricket, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane also represented India together in three ICC white-ball tournaments—the 2014 T20 World Cup, the 2015 ODI World Cup, and the 2016 T20 World Cup on home soil.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DbabtQ_E6AL/?igsh=ZHRwbWU4dWc0bmw1
Certainly one of their most memorable performances in an ICC event got here through the 2015 ODI World Cup group-stage match against Ireland in Hamilton. Chasing 260, Kohli and Rahane put together an unbeaten 70-run stand for the third wicket to steer India to a snug victory.
Get the newest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.