Key Points:
- Rohit Sharma, 38, announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket via Instagram during IPL 2025, just before the England Test series.
- Rohit played 67 Tests, scoring 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, with 12 centuries and 18 fifties; he led India in 24 Tests and reached the WTC final.
- His recent poor form and BCCI’s decision to remove him as Test captain contributed to his decision.
- With Rohit out, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the leading contenders to open for India in England.
- KL Rahul has opened in 45 Tests, scoring 2,654 runs at 35.38, including seven centuries-six of them overseas.
New Delhi: In a dramatic turn during IPL 2025, Indian cricket stalwart Rohit Sharma announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket, sending shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity and leaving selectors scrambling for answers ahead of the crucial England tour.
Why Did Rohit Retire Now?
Rohit’s decision, shared via an emotional Instagram story, came after mounting speculation about his place in the Test side. The BCCI selection committee had already decided to remove him as captain following a string of poor performances-India lost five of their last six Tests under his leadership, including a 3-1 defeat in Australia and a rare home whitewash against New Zealand. Rohit’s own form had dipped sharply, averaging just 10.93 in his last nine Tests, and he even dropped himself for the Sydney Test in the last Australia series.
Despite leading India to the World Test Championship final and a Champions Trophy win in March, Rohit, at 38, felt it was the right moment to step aside and focus on ODIs, where he remains captain.
Who Will Open for India in England?
With Rohit’s departure, the biggest question is who will partner Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order in the upcoming five-Test series in England. KL Rahul is the frontrunner, having impressed as an opener in challenging overseas conditions. Rahul has opened in 45 Tests, amassing 2,654 runs at 35.38, with seven centuries-six of them outside India, including memorable hundreds at Lord’s and The Oval in England.
Rahul’s ability to handle the swinging Dukes ball and his recent good form make him a logical choice. Jaiswal, meanwhile, has cemented his spot with consistent performances since debuting last season.
The Search for a New Test Captain
Rohit’s exit also means India must appoint a new Test captain before the England tour. Jasprit Bumrah, the current vice-captain, and Shubman Gill are the leading candidates, though neither is considered a clear-cut choice. The BCCI is expected to announce the new leadership soon, with the first Test scheduled for June 20 at Headingley.
Rohit Sharma’s Test Legacy
Rohit retires as one of India’s most elegant and dependable openers of the last decade, with 4,301 runs from 67 Tests at an average of 40.57, including a highest score of 212. His leadership saw India reach major ICC finals, and his batting at the top transformed India’s red-ball fortunes at home and abroad.
