Why Did Rahane Withdraw from Remaining Ranji Trophy Matches?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, veteran batsman Ajinkya Rahane has announced his withdrawal from Mumbai's remaining Ranji Trophy matches, citing personal reasons. This move comes as Mumbai prepares for critical encounters against Hyderabad and Delhi. Explore the implications for the team and Rahane's impressive cricket legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Ajinkya Rahane withdraws from remaining Ranji Trophy matches.
- Mumbai faces Hyderabad and Delhi in upcoming matches.
- Shardul Thakur is the new captain of Mumbai.
- Rahane led Mumbai to significant victories recently.
- Rahane is second on the all-time run-scorers list for Mumbai.
New Delhi, Jan 17 (NationPress) Veteran batsman Ajinkya Rahane has decided to withdraw from Mumbai's last two Ranji Trophy matches. The team is set to face Hyderabad from January 22 to 25, followed by their concluding league match against Delhi at the MCA-BKC ground, scheduled from January 29 to February 1.
According to reports, Rahane has communicated to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) his inability to participate in the remaining red-ball season due to personal reasons.
“We are in the process of finalizing the Mumbai team for the second stage of the league game, and Rahane has confirmed he won't be available for the upcoming two red-ball matches,” a source stated in an Indian Express report.
Prior to the 2025-26 domestic season, Rahane stepped down from the Mumbai captaincy, expressing, “I think it’s the right moment to foster a new leader.” The MCA subsequently appointed Shardul Thakur, an Indian all-rounder, as the new captain of the 42-time Ranji champions.
During Rahane’s tenure as captain, Mumbai clinched the Ranji Trophy in the 2023-24 season, breaking a seven-year championship drought. They also reached the semifinals last season, where they were defeated by Vidarbha by 90 runs. Under his leadership, Mumbai won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season, with Rahane being the tournament's top scorer, and also secured the Irani Trophy in 2024-25.
In terms of personal records, Rahane stands second in the all-time run-scorers for Mumbai in first-class cricket, accumulating 6141 runs in 80 matches at an impressive average of 57.18 from 2007 to 2025, trailing only behind former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer (8,178 runs from 1997-2015). He has also registered 19 centuries for Mumbai in first-class cricket, again only second to Jaffer's 29.
Throughout his domestic career, Rahane has played 205 first-class matches, 192 List A matches, and 284 T20 matches. He has amassed a total of 14,209 runs in 346 first-class innings at an average of 44.96, 6,853 runs in 187 List A innings at an average of 39.84, and 7,242 runs in 267 T20 innings at an average of 29.92.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Ajinkya Rahane's decision to withdraw from the Ranji Trophy matches. While personal matters are paramount, his absence will undoubtedly affect Mumbai's squad dynamics. Rahane's contributions as a player and leader have been pivotal, and his departure from the captaincy marks a transitional period for the team. We will continue to monitor this situation closely.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ajinkya Rahane not playing in the remaining Ranji Trophy matches?
Ajinkya Rahane has withdrawn from the matches due to personal reasons, as confirmed by the Mumbai Cricket Association.
What matches will Mumbai play in the Ranji Trophy?
Mumbai will face Hyderabad from January 22 to 25 and then play against Delhi from January 29 to February 1.
Who is the new captain of the Mumbai Ranji team?
Shardul Thakur has been appointed as the new captain of the Mumbai Ranji team.
What achievements did Rahane accomplish as Mumbai's captain?
Under Rahane's captaincy, Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy in the 2023-24 season and also achieved victories in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Irani Trophy.
How many runs has Rahane scored in his first-class career?
Rahane has scored 14,209 runs in 205 first-class matches.
