Mumbai batter Ajinkya Rahane has reportedly opted out of Mumbai’s remaining two group stage matches in the Ranji Trophy. According to the Indian Express, Rahane informed the Mumbai Cricket Association
(MCA) that he had ‘personal reasons’ behind his decision.
Mumbai will play away at Hyderabad from January 22-25 before returning home to play against Delhi at the Bandra Kurla Complex Ground from January 29-February 1. The squad for the former will be picked on January 17.
“We will be picking the Mumbai team for their second stage of league game, Rahane won’t be taking part as he has informed MCA that he won’t be available for the remaining two red ball games,” the newspaper quoted a MCA source as saying.
Before the break in the Ranji Trophy season for the 50-over tournament, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Mumbai were at the top of Group D, with 24 points in five matches with three wins and two draws. It remains to be seen if Rahane would make himself available again if the heavyweights qualify for the knockout rounds.
Last year, when announcing his decision to relinquish the team’s captaincy, Rahane expressed his desire to help Mumbai win more trophies.
“Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it’s the right time to groom a new leader, and hence I’ve decided not to continue in the captaincy role,” Rahane posted on X. He added, “I remain fully committed to giving my best as a player and will continue my journey with @MumbaiCricAssoc to help us win more trophies. Looking forward to the season.”
Meanwhile, as he has remained out of favor at the national level, Rahane has already started working as a pundit. He is still contracted with Kolkata Knight Riders and as of now, is their designated captain for the 2026 IPL season.
