'I noticed one particular thing when we first batted together': Cricket legend on Rahane

NEW DELHI: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has congratulated Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane on the latter's retirement from international cricket. In a post on X, Sachin praised Rahane's calm approach, calling it one of his greatest strengths. He said Rahane proved that composure is not the opposite of aggression but a quality that often gives a team the confidence to play fearlessly.

In his post, Sachin wrote: 'Congratulations on a remarkable career, @ajinkyarahane88. The first time we batted together for Mumbai, I saw someone who never chased moments. They came to you because you were willing to do the hard yards for the team. That same quality defined your finest hour in Australia. You showed that composure isn't the opposite of aggression. It is often what gives a team the confidence to be fearless. Congratulations on a wonderful career! Wishing you and your family all the very best.'

Sachin and Rahane played together for Mumbai in domestic cricket and also represented the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. Rahane made his Test debut against Australia at the Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi on March 22, 2013. Sachin was also part of the Indian team in that match, making it one of the most memorable moments of Rahane's career.

Rahane enjoyed an impressive international career. He scored 5,077 runs in 85 Test matches at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries. In One-Day Internationals, he amassed 2,962 runs in 90 matches at an average of 35.26, with three centuries and 24 half-centuries. He also scored 375 runs in 20 T20 Internationals. As India's Test captain, Rahane remained unbeaten, leading the team to four wins and two draws. He has the highest winning percentage among Indian captains who have led the side in at least five Test matches.