Ajinkya Rahane Steps Down as Mumbai Captain Ahead of Ranji Trophy

Veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday announced that he has stepped down as captain of the Mumbai cricket team ahead of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, saying it is the right time to groom a new leader.

The 37-year-old, who has scored over 14,000 runs in 201 first-class matches, confirmed that he will continue to play for Mumbai as a senior batter. The Ranji Trophy season begins on October 15, with Mumbai set to face Jammu and Kashmir in their opening encounter.

“Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour,” Rahane wrote on his official X handle, thanking his teammates and the association for their support.

Rahane, who has also led India in Test cricket, guided Mumbai to domestic success and has been an influential figure in the dressing room. His decision is expected to pave the way for younger players to take on leadership roles in the side.