My favourite Test batting partner: Kohli's tribute for retiring Ajinkya Rahane

Virat Kohli paid an emotional tribute after Ajinkya Rahane retired from international cricket. Kohli called Rahane his favourite batting partner in Test cricket as the duo formed a vital cog for India's batting in the longest format of the game.Rahane worked as Kohli's deputy when the latter was India captain (Courtesy: Reuters)India's star batter Virat Kohli paid an emotional tribute to his former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane after the Mumbai batter announced his retirement from international cricket. Rahane drew the curtains on his international career on Thursday, July 30, signing off after more than a decade in Indian colours. The veteran batter, who rose through Mumbai's fiercely competitive cricket circuit to become one of India's most dependable performers overseas, confirmed his retirement in an emotional video shared on social media.Rahane's international journey ends with 85 Test appearances, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. He will be remembered not only for his elegant batting but also for captaining India to a historic Test series triumph in Australia. This landmark achievement cemented his place in the country's cricketing history. With that chapter now complete, Rahane said it was the right moment to step away from the international game.Kohli penned a note on X, calling Rahane his favourite Test batting partner. The star batter said that Rahane had done wonders for Indian cricket and can be proud of his international career."Jinks, congratulations on a great career, buddy. You’ve done wonders for Indian cricket, and you can be very proud of your journey. The safest pair of hands in the slips and my favourite Test batting partner. Wishing you well always. God bless," said Kohli on X. Kohli's statement rings true as he forged a sensational partnership with Rahane in the longest format of the game. In 67 Tests together, the duo has scored 3661 runs at an average of 56.32. They had 10 hundred and 17 fifty run stands together with a highest partnership of 365 runs.Rahane served as Kohli's deputy as well, stepping in for him during the 2020-21 BGT, when the latter had to return home right after the first Test. Rahane also signs off with zero losses to his name as India's Test captain, a rare record. - EndsPublished On: Jul 30, 2026 19:23 IST