Fresh from retirement, former India batter Ajinkya Rahane is already embracing the next phase of his cricketing career. The 38-year-old is set to make his Test commentary debut during India’s upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka, marking his first major assignment in the broadcasting world. Rahane announced his new role on Wednesday, August 12, confirming that he will join the commentary team for the India vs Sri Lanka Test series.
The opening Test is scheduled to begin on August 15 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, while the second match will be played in Colombo. Speaking about his new role, Ajinkya Rahane said he is excited to experience Test cricket from a different perspective after spending several years at the highest level as a player.
“I’m excited to make my Test commentary debut for India’s tour of Sri Lanka on the Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV,” Ajinkya Ajinkya Rahane said. “Test cricket is the pinnacle of our sport, and having represented India in the format for so many years, it is a privilege to now look at the game from a different perspective,” he added.
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Rahane retired from professional cricket after an 18-year career that saw him represent India across formats. He established himself as one of the country’s most technically accomplished middle-order batters, particularly in Test cricket. The Mumbai-born batter played 85 Tests for India and accumulated 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46. His record includes 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries, with several of his most memorable performances coming in overseas conditions.
Rahane also enjoyed a significant stint as India’s Test captain. His leadership was particularly remembered during the 2020-21 tour of Australia, where he guided the team to a famous 2-1 series victory after India suffered a heavy defeat in the opening Test.
From leading India in the longest format to breaking down the game from the commentary box, Ajinkya Rahane is ready for a new innings.
The former India captain is set to make his Test commentary debut on the Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV during India’s upcoming tour of Sri… pic.twitter.com/ia4qA3NYtJ
— Open Magazine (@Openthemag) August 12, 2026
His experience in Sri Lankan conditions could also make him an interesting voice in the commentary box. Rahane played nine Tests against Sri Lanka between 2015 and 2017, scoring 424 runs at an average of just above 30. He registered two centuries and a half-century during those encounters.
Overall, Ajinkya Rahane played six Tests in Sri Lanka and scored 407 runs in 10 innings at an average of 45.22. Both of his centuries against Sri Lanka came on their home soil, underlining his ability to adapt to challenging conditions.
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With India expected to encounter spin-friendly surfaces during the upcoming series, Rahane’s understanding of batting against spin and his experience in Sri Lanka could add considerable value to his analysis. His calm personality, technical knowledge, and extensive experience of international cricket should make Rahane a valuable addition to the commentary team as he begins an exciting new chapter in his career.
