Ajinkya Rahane Steps Down As Mumbai Captain: 'It's The Right Time To...'

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-08-21 08:22:29 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-21 09:55:13

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Rahane, the stand-in skipper after Prithvi Shaw's doping ban, led Mumbai to their 46th Ranji Trophy title. The veteran batsman has now stepped down from the captaincy role, handing over the responsibility to Shaw.

Speaking to the media, Rahane said, "It's the right time to step down. I have always seen captaincy as an opportunity to groom young leaders, something that the team management has also asked me to do. And I have done that to the best of my ability."

"I have grown as a leader and human being through this journey. It's always a team effort, and I am grateful to my teammates and the coaching staff for supporting me," he added.

Shaw, who is 25, has already led India in an ODI series against South Africa. He said, "I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead a side that has a brilliant cricketing heritage. We have a great mix of experienced players and talented youngsters in our squad."

"I am looking forward to working closely with the new chairman of selectors, Ravi Shastri, and the rest of the selectors ahead of the domestic season," he added.

The 40-year-old Rahane, who made his first-class debut in 2007, has played a crucial role in Mumbai's success over the years. He took over as captain in 2021 and led the team to the semi-finals of the Ranji Trophy that season.

He also captained Mumbai in the Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the Indian Test squad for the tour of South Africa.

The veteran scored 136 runs across two Tests before being dropped from the squad. He was also part of the Indian team that played in the final of the ICC World Test Championship against New Zealand in June 2021.

Reflecting on his experience, Rahane said, "I have learned a lot from my time as captain and I am grateful for the opportunity to have led such a talented group of players."

"I am confident that we have a bright future ahead of us and I will continue to support the team in whatever way I can," he added.

The newly appointed Shaw has already begun his tenure, stating that he intends to foster the team's core value of togetherness and plans to follow a player-first approach.

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