Former Australia captain Steve Waugh drew an interesting comparison between Ajinkya Rahane and Sachin Tendulkar during an appearance on Rahane’s podcast, highlighting the former India batter’s compact technique and composed approach at the crease. Waugh was particularly impressed by Rahane’s small backlift, straight bat and balance, qualities that allowed him to remain effective on challenging pitches in countries such as England, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
The Australian legend felt Rahane’s technical approach had similarities with Tendulkar’s batting style. “I have a question for you. When I saw you, I thought this is a player that most looks like Tendulkar. Did you model your game around Sachin? Because you had that small backlift… very straight and compact. Well-balanced, composed. Was he your role model?” Steve Waugh asked Rahane.
For Rahane, the connection with Tendulkar went back to his childhood. Like many aspiring cricketers from Mumbai, he grew up watching Tendulkar at the Wankhede Stadium and considered him a major influence on his batting.
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Ajinkya Rahane revealed that he would regularly imitate Tendulkar’s backlift and try to replicate his famous straight drive while playing cricket with friends. “While growing up? Yes, probably everyone’s role model was Sachin Tendulkar at that point in time. Growing up in Mumbai at Wankhede Stadium, watching Sachin bat… playing with my mates in my backyard, I always used to copy Sachin Tendulkar,” Rahane said.
He eventually went from watching Tendulkar from the stands to sharing the dressing room with his childhood idol, first with Mumbai and later with the Indian team.
Always special to sit down with Steve Waugh. Had a great conversation and, as always, lots to learn from him.
Watch the full conversation: https://t.co/BTKhcq26Uj pic.twitter.com/I0FvNqtDVV
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) September 23, 2026
Rahane had to wait for his opportunity in India’s Test setup while Tendulkar remained an established member of the middle order. After Tendulkar’s retirement, Rahane became an important part of India’s Test batting lineup. He finished his Test career with 5,077 runs from 85 matches, including 12 centuries and 26 fifties, with a highest score of 188.
Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket on July 30, 2026. Across formats, he represented India in 195 matches, scoring 8,414 runs at an average of 35.95, including 15 centuries and 51 half-centuries. The podcast conversation also took a lighter turn when Steve Waugh asked whether Rahane had earned as much money as Tendulkar. Rahane responded with a smile: “I’ll probably make it now.”
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Rahane’s leadership record also stands out. He captained India in six Tests, winning four and remaining unbeaten. His most memorable captaincy achievement came during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
After India were dismissed for just 36 in Adelaide, Rahane took charge of an injury-hit side and responded with a crucial century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. India levelled the series before eventually winning 2-1, with the campaign culminating in a historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane.
