Ajinkya Rahane Steps Down as Mumbai Captain Ahead of Ranji Trophy Season

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August 21, 2025 0 373

Ajinkya Rahane to Continue as Batter

Ajinkya Rahane stepped down as Mumbai’s captain before the Ranji Trophy season, stressing the need to groom a new leader.

India batting star Ajinkya Rahane has stepped down as captain of Mumbai ahead of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, highlighting the importance of preparing a new leader for the team.

The 37-year-old, who has scored more than 14,000 runs in 201 first-class matches, confirmed that he will continue to represent Mumbai as a batter. The new Ranji season begins on October 15, with Mumbai taking on Jammu and Kashmir in their opening match.

“Captaining and winning the championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With the new domestic season ahead, I believe it is the right time to groom a new leader, and hence, I have 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 MCA to help us win more trophies, looking forward to the season,” Rahane wrote on his ‘X’ account..

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Rahane’s leadership brought Mumbai significant success in recent years. Under his captaincy, the team won the Ranji Trophy title in the 2023–24 season, defeating Vidarbha in the final. He also guided Mumbai to the Irani Cup 2024–25 title, overcoming the Rest of India (ROI) side. Earlier, he led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022–23, strengthening his reputation as one of the most successful captains in Indian domestic cricket.

Rahane continues to aim for a return to international cricket. During India’s tour of England earlier this year, he expressed his strong desire to play Tests again, with his last appearance coming against the West Indies in 2023.