Key Points:
- Rohit Sharma, 38, retires from Test cricket after 67 matches, scoring 4,301 runs with 12 centuries and 18 fifties.
- His decision comes days before the England Test tour and amid a slump in form and leadership changes.
- India will announce a new Test captain, with Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant as top contenders.
- Rohit will continue to play and captain in ODIs, having already retired from T20Is after India’s 2024 World Cup win.
- His Test career highlights include leading India to the World Test Championship final and becoming a reliable opener in the latter half of his career.
New Delhi: In a major development for Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma has announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket, just weeks before India’s crucial five-match series in England. The 38-year-old, who debuted in 2013, leaves behind a legacy of 4,301 runs from 67 Tests at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries.
A Storied Test Career
Rohit’s journey in whites saw him transform from a middle-order hopeful to one of India’s most dependable openers. His highest Test score, a sublime 212, showcased his flair and composure. As captain, he led India in 24 Tests, including guiding the team to the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia.
Recent Struggles and Retirement Decision
Rohit’s retirement follows a prolonged slump in form, averaging just 10.93 in his last nine Tests, and a disappointing run as captain-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. Reports indicate the BCCI selection committee was already planning a leadership change, prompting Rohit to step down before the England squad announcement.
What’s Next for Team India?
With Rohit’s exit, India will head to England with a new Test captain. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant are among the frontrunners for the role. The selectors are reportedly keen to groom a younger leader for the next World Test Championship cycle.
Rohit’s White-Ball Future
Rohit clarified he will continue to lead and play for India in ODIs, focusing on the upcoming ICC tournaments. He had already retired from T20Is after leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, ending a 13-year ICC trophy drought.
Legacy and Impact
Rohit Sharma’s Test career will be remembered for his elegant strokeplay, resilience as an opener, and steady leadership during a transitional phase for Indian cricket. His decision paves the way for a new era as India prepares for a challenging series in England with fresh leadership at the helm.
