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Ajinkya Rahane has opted out of Mumbai’s last two Ranji Trophy group matches for private reasons.
Ajinkya Rahane (PTI Photo)
Mumbai batter Ajinkya Rahane has reportedly opted out of Mumbai’s remaining two group stage matches within the Ranji Trophy. In response to the Indian Express, Rahane informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he had ‘personal reasons’ behind his decision.
Mumbai will play away at Hyderabad from January 22-25 before returning home to play against Delhi on the Bandra Kurla Complex Ground from January 29-February 1. The squad for the previous will likely be picked on January 17.
“We will likely be picking the Mumbai team for his or her second stage of league game, Rahane won’t be collaborating as he has informed MCA that he won’t be available for the remaining two red ball games,” the newspaper quoted a MCA source as saying.
Before the break within the Ranji Trophy season for the 50-over tournament, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Mumbai were at the highest of Group D, with 24 points in five matches with three wins and two draws. It stays to be seen if Rahane would make himself available again if the heavyweights qualify for the knockout rounds.
Last yr, when announcing his decision to relinquish the team’s captaincy, Rahane expressed his desire to assist Mumbai win more trophies.
“Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With a brand new domestic season ahead, I imagine it’s the proper time to groom a brand new leader, and hence I’ve decided to not proceed within the captaincy role,” Rahane posted on X. He added, “I remain fully committed to giving my best as a player and can proceed my journey with @MumbaiCricAssoc to assist us win more trophies. Looking forward to the season.”
Meanwhile, as he has remained out of favor on the national level, Rahane has already began working as a pundit. He remains to be contracted with Kolkata Knight Riders and as of now, is their designated captain for the 2026 IPL season.
January 17, 2026, 10:51 IST
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