Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane is set to begin a new chapter in his cricket journey, making his Test commentary debut during the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka. Rahane will join the Sony Sports Network commentary panel for the series, which begins on August 15 in Galle. The second Test is scheduled in Colombo from August 23. Coverage will air on Sony Sports Network and stream on Sony LIV. The 38-year-old recently brought the curtain down on an 18-year first-class career. A veteran of 85 Tests for India, he scored 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries. He also captained the side, most notably leading India to a historic series win in Australia in 2020-21.
In a statement, Rahane expressed excitement about the transition. “I’m excited to make my Test commentary debut for India’s tour of Sri Lanka on the Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV. 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 said.
“I’m looking forward to sharing experiences, breaking down the nuances of the game and offering fans insights into the decisions, strategies and moments that can shape a Test match. I hope to make the broadcast experience more enriching for fans and give them a deeper understanding of what happens on the field.”
Ajinkya Rahane takes up new role ahead of India’s Test series
Sony Pictures Networks India welcomed his addition. Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer and Business Head, Sports and International, said Rahane has always stood out for his composure, resilience and astute reading of the game, and that viewers would benefit from his perspective on the format he knows so well.
Rahane’s experience of red-ball cricket, particularly in Asian conditions, is expected to add valuable analysis. He played a key role in India’s 3-0 series sweep in Sri Lanka in 2017, scoring more than 200 runs including a century. Ahead of this tour he had also advised Indian batters to stay proactive against spin rather than overly defensive on the expected turning tracks.
The move marks a natural shift for many former players after retirement. For Rahane, it offers a chance to stay connected to the longest format he excelled in while sharing insights with a new generation of fans. The series is a part of the World Test Championship cycle and the first Test will begin on 15th August.
