‘Silent warrior Ajinkya could’ve played 100 Tests’

Chandrakant Pandit and Pravin Amre

Former Mumbai Ranji Trophy head coaches Pravin Amre and Chandrakant Pandit described Test veteran Ajinkya Rahane as a silent warrior and highly committed professional, as the stylish batter announced his retirement from all forms of the game on Thursday.

Rahane scored 14,209 runs in 205 first-class games after making his debut for Mumbai against Karachi Urban in Pakistan in 2007, where he scored 143 at the National Stadium in Karachi, under head coach Amre.

"Ajinkya was always a silent warrior. I have just one regret as a coach. He could've finished as a legend, with 100 Tests. But it's not his fault. He tried his best. Had he received support from the system, it would have been a great achievement," Amre, who played 11 Tests and 37 ODIs, told mid-day on Thursday.

Ex-Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Pandit hailed Rahane's discipline. "Ajinkya still has some cricket in him. He did well for Mumbai and KKR too. He's one of the most dedicated, committed and well-disciplined cricketers with a great work ethic. Playing 85 Tests is no joke, yet his attitude and body language has been unwavering. He has always been very down to earth and I've always respected him for that," Pandit told mid-day over the phone from Indore.

Amre also highlighted Rahane's success in tough overseas conditions: "He has scored loads of runs in SENA countries [South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia]. Having performed for so long in those difficult conditions, he deserved a fitting farewell on the field."

Ajinkya Naik, MCA chief
‘Ajinkya Rahane's retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket. His dedication, composure under pressure, and commitment to excellence have made him one of Mumbai cricket's finest ambassadors. His legacy will inspire generations to come.'