'Composure isn't the opposite of aggression': Sachin Tendulkar's tribute to Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday. Sachin Tendulkar led the tributes, praising Rahane's temperament and leadership with the line: 'Composure isn't the opposite of aggression'.

Rahane departs the international game having scored 5,077 Test runs and holding an unbeaten captaincy record. Tendulkar recalled Rahane's dedication and leadership qualities while a number of former team-mates and coaches publicly acknowledged his contributions. Former coach Ravi Shastri described Rahane's efforts as a yeoman service to Indian cricket. Cheteshwar Pujara and Virender Sehwag were among the players who celebrated his career achievements.

Tendulkar's comment — "Composure isn't the opposite of aggression" — was offered as part of a wider appreciation of Rahane's approach on and off the field. The senior batter framed Rahane's temperament as a defining feature of his career and singled out his leadership attributes in the tributes he led. Those words were echoed across social messages from the cricketing community following the retirement announcement.

Ravi Shastri, identified as Rahane's former coach, paid particular tribute to the manner of his service to the national side. Shastri's praise emphasised the long-term contributions Rahane made during his time with India. The coach's remarks joined those from other veterans in acknowledging Rahane's steadiness and resilience.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virender Sehwag also marked Rahane's exit from international cricket by celebrating the milestones and consistency of his career. Their acknowledgements focused on the achievements Rahane compiled during his years as a specialist Test batter and leader within the side. Those responses formed part of a broader chorus recognising his role in Indian cricket.

The collection of tributes from Tendulkar, Shastri, Pujara and Sehwag underlined the esteem in which Rahane is held as he closes his international chapter. With 5,077 Test runs to his name and an unbeaten record as captain, Rahane leaves a statistical legacy that was repeatedly noted in the messages that followed his retirement announcement.