Former India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane entertained viewers with a hilarious impersonation of former head coach Ravi Shastri during a live television broadcast. On Sony Sports Network’s Extraaa Innings, Rahane recreated Shastri’s voice and energetic style while discussing the first Test between India and Sri Lanka.
Rahane settled into his new role as a television expert following his retirement from professional cricket. The former batter showed a relaxed and humorous side while analysing India’s performance. Rahane has received recognition from several organizations and individuals for his contributions to the Indian team.
Watch: Ajinkya Rahane Mimics Ravi Shastri on Live Television
Ajinkya Rahane was asked to perform his best impression of Ravi Shastri during the live broadcast. Rahane immediately changed his tone and delivered an imitation of his former coach, copying Shastri’s deep voice, energetic style, and familiar dressing-room language.
The performance left Mohammad Kaif and Ajay Jadeja laughing during the segment. Rahane continued the impression and recreated the kind of intense team talk Shastri often gave before important matches.
“Guys... it's time. It's time. It's time. Game is on. Yeah. You gotta have tika. Let them feel the heat. We are dominating. Just go out there and enjoy your game.”
Jinks mimicking Ravi Shastri was NOT on our bingo card! 😅
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 18, 2026
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Ajinkya Rahane and Ravi Shastri's Historic Australia Series Triumph
Ajinkya Rahane and Ravi Shastri shared one of India's most memorable Test campaigns during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rahane took charge after India were bowled out for 36 in Adelaide and worked closely with Shastri as the team dealt with injuries, setbacks and intense pressure in Australia.
Rahane then produced a match-winning century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as India levelled the series. The visitors continued to fight despite losing several key players to injuries and eventually won the series 2-1, completing one of the most remarkable comebacks in Indian Test cricket.
The victory reached another level at the Gabba in Bribane, where the Men in Blue ended Australia's long unbeaten run at the venue. The series win highlighted the successful partnership between Rahane's leadership on the field and Shastri's work from the Indian dressing room.
Ajinkya Rahane Signs Off as 'Cap 278'
Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from all formats of professional cricket on July 30, 2026. The middle-order batter shared an emotional message with fans on social media platforms and signed off as “Cap 278,” thanking everyone who supported him throughout his career.
Rahane represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20Is, establishing himself as a dependable middle-order batter and a strong performer in overseas conditions. He scored more than 8,000 international runs and produced important centuries across England, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
He also remained a key figure in domestic cricket for Mumbai. Rahane captained the side to their 42nd Ranji Trophy title in 2024, adding another major achievement to his career. Since retiring, he has also received recognition from several organisations and individuals for his contribution to Indian cricket.
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