Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane is ready to enter a new phase of his cricket career, with the veteran set to make his Test commentary debut during India’s upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka.
Rahane will trade his playing kit for a microphone when India take on Sri Lanka in the first Test, beginning August 15. The 38-year-old has joined Sony Sports Network’s commentary panel following his decision to retire from professional cricket.
The broadcaster welcomed the former India batter on social media, signalling the beginning of his new association with the network. “The magic hasn’t stopped, it’s just found a new home!” Sony Sports posted, while adding, “Welcome aboard Extraaa Innings, Jinks!”
The magic hasn’t stopped, it’s just found a new home! 🎙️✨
Welcome aboard Extraaa Innings, Jinks! 💙🏏#SonySportsNetwork #SonyLIV #BeautifulGameofTestCricket pic.twitter.com/IlJtzFoM91
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 13, 2026
Rahane’s transition into commentary comes only weeks after he announced his retirement on July 30. Having spent more than a decade at the highest level, he now gets an opportunity to offer viewers insight into the modern game from a different perspective.
A career built on composure and big-match performances
Rahane leaves international cricket with an impressive record, having represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is. His Test career produced 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries. Although his career had its share of ups and downs, Rahane was particularly valued for his temperament in Test cricket. His most celebrated leadership moment came during India’s historic 2020-21 tour of Australia.
After India were dismissed for just 36 in the opening Test, Rahane took charge as captain following Virat Kohli‘s departure from the tour. He responded with a crucial century in Melbourne and eventually guided India to a memorable 2-1 series victory. That comeback remains one of the defining chapters of Rahane’s career and is likely to provide plenty of perspective as he begins analysing Test cricket from the commentary box.
Retirement is not the end for Rahane
While Rahane has closed the door on playing professional cricket, he is not stepping away from the sport altogether. He has also signed with Amsterdam Flames as their marquee player for the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL), which is scheduled to run from August 26 to September 20. Rahane last played a Test for India in July 2023 and had not featured in the national team’s white-ball setup since 2018. At the domestic and franchise level, he continued to remain involved, representing six different IPL teams during his career, with Kolkata Knight Riders his final franchise.
Now, his playing days behind him, Rahane will bring years of international experience and knowledge into the commentary box. His calm personality and understanding of Test cricket could make him an interesting addition to commentary panel as India begin their Sri Lanka assignment.
