Indian cricket star and captain Rohit Sharma has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a distinguished red-ball career that spanned over a decade. The 38-year-old shared the news via Instagram on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to fans and the cricketing fraternity for their unwavering support.
“Hello everyone, I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. 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,” Rohit wrote.
Rohit Sharma’s Test career began in 2013, and over 67 matches, he amassed 4,301 runs, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His highest score, 212, came against South Africa in 2019. Known for his elegant stroke play and composure under pressure, Rohit evolved into a key figure in India’s Test setup, especially after assuming captaincy.
Under his leadership, India played 24 Tests, winning 12 and losing 9. Though his tenure included setbacks—most notably India’s failure to qualify for the World Test Championship Final during the latest Australia tour—Rohit also led India to the final of the 2023 WTC edition at The Oval.
Reacting to the news, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla praised Rohit’s contributions and leadership. “Rohit Sharma has contributed a lot to Indian cricket. He has taken the decision to retire from Test cricket himself, and we respect that. Our policy is to leave such decisions to the players. We appreciate his service to the team and wish him the best,” Shukla told ANI.
Shukla also hinted that Rohit’s cricketing journey is far from over. “He still has a lot of cricket and strength left. He’s said he will continue playing ODIs, which is great for Indian cricket.”
As for the next Test captain, Shukla said that decision will be left to the national selectors after the conclusion of the ongoing IPL season.
Rohit’s retirement from the longest format signals the end of a celebrated era for Indian cricket—one marked by poise at the crease, tactical acumen, and a deep passion for the game. Fans and teammates alike will remember him not just for his centuries, but for the calm leadership and class he brought to Indian whites.
