Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli posted an emotional message for Ajinkya Rahane after the latter decided to call time on his International career across all formats on Thursday. Rahane announced his retirement in an emotional video message on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Kohli and Rahane shared a great bonhomie while playing with each other. While Kohli led India to great heights in the red-ball format, Rahane always provided him the support as his deputy.

The Mumbai batter played 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is for India while also featured in 212 IPL games for six teams. Rahane amassed 5077 Test runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries, out of which eight came in overseas conditions.

He also led India to a memorable Border-Gavaskar series win against Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Virat Kohli after the visitors lost the opening Test at Adelaide, following their 36-run second innings collapse. Rahane scored a magnificent century at the MCG to lead from the front and helped India draw the series. India then went on to register a historic win at the Gabba.

Kohli tipped Rahane as his favorite Test batting partner.

Kohli wrote on his Instagram story, “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.”

On the other hand, Rahane’s former Mumbai and India teammate Rohit Sharma also congratulated him on a stellar career.

“We’ve shared the dressing room for so many years, and I know how much hard work has gone into everything you’ve achieved. Your commitment and professionalism have always set you apart. Congratulations on a wonderful career. Best wishes, ” Sharma wrote in an X post.

Rahane led India in six Test matches and the team never suffered a loss under his leadership.