Ajinkya Rahane Steps Down as Mumbai Captain, Focuses on Batting Role Ahead of New Season

Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has announced his decision to step down as captain of the Mumbai cricket team ahead of the upcoming domestic season. The 37-year-old made the announcement on social media on Thursday, expressing his intent to pave the way for new leadership while continuing as a key player.

“Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour,” Rahane wrote in his post. “With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it’s the right time to groom a new leader, and hence I’ve 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 Mumbai to help us win more trophies.”

Rahane’s decision comes just months after leading Mumbai to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title in the 2024–25 season. Not only did he guide the team to silverware, but he also delivered with the bat, amassing an impressive 469 runs, a strong reminder of his continuing value on the field.

Known for his calm and composed leadership style, Rahane has long been regarded as a dependable figure in Indian cricket. His most notable stint as captain remains India’s historic 2020–21 Test series victory in Australia, a triumph that cemented his place as a leader who thrives under pressure.

The timing of Rahane’s decision reflects a forward-looking mindset. With Mumbai looking to build for the future, his move opens the door for a younger leader to step into the captaincy role. It also allows Rahane to focus solely on his playing responsibilities, something he seems fully committed to following a late-career resurgence.

Rahane’s recent IPL stint has also kept him in the limelight. After reviving his form with Chennai Super Kings in 2023, he continues to be part of the Kolkata Knight Riders squad. While there had been speculation about a broader exit, Thursday’s announcement indicates that Rahane is staying in the game, just shifting his focus back to performance over leadership.

Having scored 8,414 runs across all formats for India, Rahane remains one of Mumbai’s most experienced and decorated players. As the team prepares for a fresh domestic campaign, his presence will undoubtedly remain vital, even without the captain’s armband.