In a move that has sent ripples through the cricketing world, veteran Indian batter and current ODI captain, Rohit Sharma, has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 38-year-old took to social media on Wednesday to share his decision, stating that it has been an “absolute honour” to represent his country in the longest format of the game.
“Hello everyone, I would like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket,” Sharma wrote on his Instagram story. “It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a challenging period for Sharma in Test cricket, particularly following India’s recent series against Australia. While he led India to the World Test Championship Final in 2023, his personal form in red-ball cricket had come under scrutiny. There were even reports suggesting that the national selectors had decided to move forward with a new captain for the upcoming tour of England, which begins next month.
A Test Career of Highs and Lows
Rohit Sharma’s Test career spanned over a decade, making his debut against the West Indies in November 2013. In 67 Test matches, he amassed 4301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His highest score of 212 came against South Africa in 2019.
While Sharma established himself as a formidable opener, especially at home, his overseas performances were inconsistent. However, he played a crucial role in India’s memorable Test series victory in Australia in 2020-21 and was the leading run-scorer for India in the 2021-22 Pataudi Trophy in England.
Reactions Pour In
The news of Sharma’s retirement has been met with an outpouring of reactions from the cricketing fraternity. Former and current teammates, as well as fans, have taken to social media to acknowledge his contributions to Test cricket.
BCCI President Roger Binny lauded Sharma’s impact, stating, “Mr. Rohit Sharma’s impact on Indian cricket transcends records and statistics. He brought a sense of calm and assurance to the team – both as a player and as a captain. His ability to stay composed under pressure and to consistently put the team’s needs above his own made him a truly special player and leader.”
Head coach Gautam Gambhir described Sharma as “a master, a leader & a gem,” while legendary spinner Anil Kumble praised his growth in Test cricket, from a “free-flowing opener to a composed captain.”
Focus Shifts to ODIs
Having already retired from T20 Internationals after leading India to the World Cup title last year, Sharma’s decision now allows him to focus solely on the One Day International format, where he continues to be the captain. He recently led India to victory in the Champions Trophy earlier this year and will be aiming to guide the team to another World Cup triumph in the future.
A New Era for Indian Test Cricket
Rohit Sharma’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian Test cricket and opens up new possibilities for the team’s leadership and batting lineup. With the tour of England just around the corner, the selectors will now have the task of naming a new Test captain and solidifying the team’s composition for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle.
While fans will undoubtedly miss Sharma’s elegant strokeplay and leadership in the whites, his contributions to Indian cricket will be remembered for years to come. His focus now shifts to the ODI arena, where he will continue to be a vital cog in India’s quest for global dominance.
