Ajinkya Rahane is a distinguished Indian cricketer renowned for his versatile batting skills across all formats of the game. He made his first-class debut for Mumbai in the 2007–08 Ranji Trophy season, quickly establishing himself as a formidable player with a remarkable debut score of 143. Rahane’s domestic career flourished as he accumulated over 1,000 runs in multiple seasons, leading Mumbai to significant victories, including the Ranji Trophy title. His exceptional performance earned him a spot in the Indian national team, where he made his international debut in T20Is in 2011.
Rahane’s Test career commenced in 2013, and he quickly became a key player for India, particularly in overseas conditions. He has achieved significant milestones, including scoring his first Test century in New Zealand and becoming the first Indian to score a century at Lord’s on debut. His leadership qualities shone when he captained the Indian team during the historic 2020-21 Border–Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s success, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
In the One-Day Internationals, Rahane has been instrumental with his consistent performances, including multiple centuries. He has also made notable contributions in T20 cricket, debuting with a half-century and participating in key tournaments like the ICC World T20. His IPL journey began with Rajasthan Royals, where he emerged as a leading run-scorer and later played crucial roles for franchises like Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings, culminating in his first IPL title in 2023.
Rahane’s accolades include the CEAT Indian Cricketer of the Year award and the prestigious Arjuna Award, reflecting his dedication and impact on Indian cricket. His journey from domestic cricket to international stardom exemplifies his resilience and commitment, making him an invaluable asset to any team and a prominent figure in the cricketing world.