Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy in Test cricket is a relatively under-discussed aspect of Indian cricket history. Serving primarily as the vice-captain to Virat Kohli, Rahane had to wait until 2022 for a full-time captaincy opportunity. However, he was dropped from the side due to a dip in form, leading to Rohit Sharma assuming the captaincy role. Despite this, Rahane finishes his career with an unblemished record as India's Test captain.
In this article, we will rank every Test match that Ajinkya Rahane captained for India, from the least to the most memorable encounters.
6. Draw vs New Zealand, Kanpur, November 2021
This match was a missed opportunity for India, who were in a commanding position while chasing 284 runs. At one point, New Zealand found themselves struggling at 128/6, but a resilient last-wicket partnership between Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra thwarted India's efforts, resulting in a hard-fought draw. Rahane's captaincy was put to the test as he tried various bowling changes and field placements, but the Kiwis managed to hold on, showcasing their grit.
5. Win by an innings and 262 runs vs Afghanistan, Bengaluru, June 2018
This match marked a historic moment as Afghanistan made their Test debut. India dominated the game, scoring 474 runs in their first innings, bolstered by centuries from Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan. The Indian bowlers then dismantled the Afghan batting line-up, dismissing them for just 212 runs over two innings. This victory by an innings and 262 runs was significant as it marked India's largest win margin at the time.
4. Win by 8 wickets vs Australia, Dharamsala, March 2017
Rahane's first Test as captain was a crucial decider in a tightly contested series against Australia, which was tied at 1-1. He made a bold decision to hand a debut to Kuldeep Yadav, whose four-wicket haul helped India restrict Australia to 300 runs. India took a narrow first-innings lead and successfully chased down a target of 106 runs, with Rahane remaining unbeaten at the end of the match.
3. Draw vs Australia, Sydney, January 2021
The third Test of India's tour of Australia in 2020-21 was a rollercoaster of emotions. India, chasing a daunting target of 407 runs, found themselves in trouble after losing key wickets. However, a heroic partnership between Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari, both of whom were injured, saw them bat out 42.4 overs to secure a memorable draw. This result was crucial in keeping India's hopes alive in the four-match series.
2. Win by 8 wickets vs Australia, Melbourne, December 2020
Following a dismal performance in the first Test where India was bowled out for just 36 runs, the second Test in Melbourne saw a remarkable turnaround. Rahane stepped up as captain, scoring a pivotal century and leading his team to a comprehensive victory. India bowled Australia out for 195 and 200, chasing down a target of 70 runs with ease, leveling the series and earning Rahane the Player of the Match award.
1. Win by 3 wickets vs Australia, Brisbane, January 2021
In a historic finale at the Gabba, India faced overwhelming odds with a depleted squad. Despite being down and out at various points in the match, Rahane's leadership inspired a remarkable comeback. With Australia setting a challenging target of 328 runs, India achieved the highest successful run chase at the venue, led by crucial contributions from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. This victory not only clinched the series for India but also ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba, solidifying Rahane's legacy as a captain.
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