"I've decided not to..."- Ajinkya Rahane takes massive decision ahead of Ranji Trophy 2025-26

The former Indian captain, Ajinkya Rahane, has decided to make a massive decision for Mumbai in the domestic cricket ahead of the Ranji Trophy 2025/26 season. The 37-year-old has used his social media platform to announce his decision to step down from the captaincy of the domestic team. He led them in the last few seasons but has now made way for the youngsters to come forward.

Ajinkya Rahane has overall smashed 14000 runs in 340 innings of first-class cricket at an average of 45.16 and a strike rate of 53.21 with the help of 41 centuries and 59 half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 265 runs. In Test cricket, the right-handed batter grabbed 5077 runs in 144 innings at an average of 38.46 with 12 centuries and 26 fifties.

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“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. I remain fully committed to giving my best as a player and will continue my journey with Mumbai to help us win more trophies. Looking forward to the season.” Rahane expressed on socials.

Ajinkya Rahane steps down from captaincy for Mumbai in Ranji Trophy 2025/26

Rahane’s last international red-ball fixture came in July 2023 against the West Indies at the Port of Spain. He featured in the WTC 2023 final against Australia at the Kennington Oval in South London. His last FC encounter, however, came in February this year against Vidarbha.

“I still want to play Test cricket. I'm passionate about playing Test cricket. I'm enjoying my cricket at the moment. I'm here just for a few days. I carried my trainers and my training clothes so that I can keep myself fit. Our domestic season is starting, so preparations have just begun.” Rahane expressed his wish in London during the Lord’s England vs India Test match.

However, with the young brigade taking on the batting department under captain Shubman Gill and them drawing the Test series 2-2 in England recently, the international door of comeback is slowly closing for the right-handed batter.