Rahane’s tenure as captain saw a significant revival in Mumbai’s domestic fortunes. Under his leadership, Mumbai ended their seven-year Ranji Trophy drought by lifting the coveted title in the 2023–24 season. He also led the team to Irani Cup glory in the 2024–25 campaign, reinforcing Mumbai's reputation as a domestic powerhouse
Ajinkya Rahane (Pic: AFP)
Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has announced his decision to step down as captain of the Mumbai team ahead of the upcoming domestic season. The 37-year-old made the announcement on Thursday through a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
"Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it's the right time to groom a new leader, and hence I've decided not to continue in the captaincy role," Rahane wrote on X. He added, "I remain fully committed to giving my best as a player and will continue my journey with @MumbaiCricAssoc to help us win more trophies. Looking forward to the season."
Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour.
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) August 21, 2025
With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it’s the right time to groom a new leader, and hence I’ve decided not to continue in the captaincy role.
I remain fully committed to giving my best…
Rahane’s tenure as captain saw a significant revival in Mumbai’s domestic fortunes. Under his leadership, Mumbai ended their seven-year Ranji Trophy drought by lifting the coveted title in the 2023–24 season. He also led the team to Irani Cup glory in the 2024–25 campaign, reinforcing Mumbai's reputation as a domestic powerhouse.
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Rahane clarified that he has no plans to retire and will continue contributing as a player in all formats. His vast experience and composure at the crease are expected to remain crucial assets for Mumbai as they aim to build on recent successes.
Rahane last featured in competitive cricket during the IPL 2025 season, where he represented Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He scored 390 runs across 13 matches, playing a steady role in the top order. His leadership experience and calm presence had earlier made him a natural choice for the leadership group at KKR.
Rahane, who famously captained India to a Test series win in Australia in 2021, is not on the national selectors' radar anymore but he remains determined to make a national comeback. He has played 85 Tests for India with the last one coming against the West Indies back in July 2023. He has also featured in 90 ODIs and 20 T20 Internationals. Rahane also reinvented his game in the shortest format, eventually leading to his elevation as Kolkata Knight Riders skipper in IPL 2025.
Both Rahane and another senior batter Cheteshwar Pujara are continuing to play in hope of making an India comeback.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
