Overview
- Rahane formally announced his retirement from all international cricket on July 30, 2026, after about 20 to 25 days of reflection.
- He told reporters that Sachin Tendulkar was the first to call after the announcement and that Irfan Pathan also rang while Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah sent messages.
- Rahane said he cried after recording his retirement video and felt emotional discussing the decision with his family, but added he had no regrets about stepping away.
- Over a 13‑year international career he played 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is, scored 5,077 Test runs with 12 centuries, and is widely remembered for leading India to the 2020–21 Border‑Gavaskar Trophy comeback that included the Gabba win.
- He will continue playing in franchise and domestic tournaments, is slated for the inaugural European T20 Premier League, plans to do mentoring and commentary, and his retirement opens selection opportunities for domestic players in upcoming India squads.