Ajinkya Rahane Reveals Father’s Silent Sacrifice That Became His Driving Force in Cricket Journey

New Delhi, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

Veteran India batsman Ajinkya Rahane has opened up about a childhood incident that shaped his cricketing journey, revealing how his father’s quiet sacrifice became the inspiration behind his determination to succeed at the highest level.

Recalling his early days as a seven-year-old traveling across Mumbai for cricket practice, Rahane said his father initially accompanied him on his local train journey but later encouraged him to travel independently with his cricket kit bag.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Rahane said his father had taken leave from work on the first day to drop him at practice, despite not receiving payment for that day. Soon after, he asked the young cricketer to make the journey alone.

Rahane said he only discovered years later that his father had actually been following him from another train compartment to ensure he reached safely.

“He didn’t tell me that… after probably five or six years down the line, he told me on that day he was following me from another compartment just to see if I reached the railway station okay or not,” Rahane recalled.

The Mumbai batter said the revelation had a deep emotional impact on him and became a turning point in his life. He decided that every achievement in cricket would be dedicated to his parents and their sacrifices.

“That’s the time I decided, whatever I do from here on, whether I play for my state or my country, I’ll do it for my parents,” Rahane said.

Rahane, who has represented India across formats and led the team during several memorable moments, credited his family’s support and sacrifices as a major influence behind his career.