My favorite Test batting partner: Virat Kohli’s tribute to Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement

India’s star batsman Virat Kohli paid an emotional tribute to his former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane after the Mumbai batsman announced his retirement from international cricket. Rahane drew the curtains on his international career on Thursday 30. signing after more than ten years in Indian colours. The veteran batsman, who rose through the fiercely competitive cricket circuit in Mumbai to become one of India’s most reliable performers overseas, confirmed his retirement in an emotional video shared on social media.

Rahane’s international journey ends with 85 Test appearances, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. He will be remembered not only for his elegant batting but also for leading India to a historic Test series triumph in Australia. This landmark achievement cemented his place in the cricketing history of the country. With that chapter now complete, Rahane said the time was right to retire from the international game.

Kohli made a note of X, calling Rahane his favorite Test batting partner. The star batsman said Rahane has done wonders for Indian cricket and can be proud of his international career.

“Jinks, congrats on a great career mate. You have done wonders for Indian cricket and you can be very proud of your journey. Safest pair of hands in the slips and my favorite Test batting partner. I wish you all the best always. God bless,” Kohli said on X.

Kohli’s statement rings true as he has formed a sensational partnership with Rahane in the longest format of the game. In 67 Tests together, the duo scored 3661 runs at an average of 56.32. They had 10 hundreds and 17 fifties along with a highest partnership of 365 runs.

Rahane also served as Kohli’s deputy, deputizing for him during the 2020-21 BGT when the latter had to return home immediately after the first Test. Rahane also signed off with zero losses to his name as India’s Test captain, a rare record.

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Published on:

30 Jul 2026 19:23 IST