Ajinkya Rahane, known for his red-ball brilliance, has quietly built a reputation as a dependable Test stalwart. While his IPL 2025 form impressed many, his true legacy lies in the longest format. Here’s a look at some of Rahane’s highest and most memorable scores in Test cricket over the years.
5. 126 Runs vs Sri Lanka
On August 20, 2015, Ajinkya Rahane crafted a gritty 126 off 243 balls in the third innings of the Colombo Test at P Sara Oval. With India aiming to build a commanding lead, Rahane’s measured knock—anchored in patience and precision—proved vital. Partnering with Murali Vijay, who scored 82, Rahane helped India gain control of the match, which they went on to win. This innings underlined his ability to deliver under pressure and reinforced his reputation as a reliable middle-order mainstay, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.
4. 127 Runs vs South Africa
On December 3, 2015, Ajinkya Rahane delivered a composed 127 off 215 balls against a formidable South African attack in Delhi. In a low-scoring series marked by tricky pitches, his innings stood out for its balance—mixing strike rotation with well-timed aggression, including 11 fours and 4 sixes. With Virat Kohli contributing 44, Rahane’s knock was key in helping India establish a strong first-innings lead. He backed it up with an unbeaten century in the second innings, showcasing his dominance and adaptability—becoming the only batter in the series to score hundreds in both innings of a Test.
3. 132 Runs vs Sri Lanka
On August 3, 2017, Ajinkya Rahane stamped his authority in subcontinental conditions with a fluent 132 off 222 balls against Sri Lanka at the SSC Ground in Colombo. Featuring 14 boundaries, the knock was marked by calmness, control, and aggressive intent—his only misstep being a rare stumping. Partnering Cheteshwar Pujara, who also struck a century, Rahane played a key role in India’s imposing first-innings total of 622, laying the foundation for yet another emphatic overseas Test victory.
2. 147 Runs vs Australia
Ajinkya Rahane delivered one of his finest overseas knocks during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG on December 26, 2014. Facing a formidable Australian pace attack, he hammered a scintillating 147 off just 171 balls at a striking rate of 85.96, laced with 21 boundaries. With India under pressure after Australia’s 530, Rahane’s counter-attacking flair and composure provided the stability India needed. His partnership with Virat Kohli, who also scored a century, helped India post 465 and ensured the Test ended in a hard-fought draw.
1. 188 Runs vs New Zealand
Ajinkya Rahane’s highest Test score came in Indore against New Zealand in October 2016. Batting at No. 5, he crafted a monumental 188 off 381 balls, showcasing immense patience and composure across more than 500 minutes at the crease. His innings, studded with 18 fours and 4 sixes, was the perfect blend of grit and fluency. Partnering with Virat Kohli—who scored a double century—Rahane helped India pile up a massive total. His knock proved crucial on a turning pitch, laying the foundation for a series-clinching victory.
