Rohit Sharma Announces Retirement from Test Cricket
In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma has officially retired from Test cricket, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career. Rohit confirmed that he will continue to represent India in the ODI format, but his journey in whites has concluded with immediate effect.
“It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years,” Rohit stated in his farewell message.
Rohit Sharma’s Test career spanned 11 years, beginning with a memorable debut in 2013 against the West Indies, where he scored a century. He went on to play 67 Test matches, scoring 4301 runs at an average of 44.61, including 12 centuries and a career-best 212 against South Africa in Ranchi.
Initially set to debut in 2010, an untimely injury delayed his Test journey. However, once he made his mark in 2013, he quickly became a key part of India’s middle order before successfully transitioning to an opener’s role in 2019. That year, he rejuvenated his red-ball career with stellar performances, especially during the home series against South Africa.
In 2022, Rohit took over the Test captaincy from Virat Kohli, leading India in 24 Tests. Under his leadership, India registered a respectable 12-9 win-loss record, including a memorable 4-1 home series win against England in 2024. However, his captaincy faced challenges, notably a 3-0 series loss to New Zealand at home, ending a 12-year unbeaten home streak.
Rohit’s form in the longest format dipped during the 2024-25 season, with just one fifty-plus score in his last 15 innings. His final appearance came in the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the MCG in 2024, where he struggled with both form and fitness.
With India’s upcoming five-Test tour of England, Rohit’s retirement now opens the door for a new Test captain to be named. His absence will be keenly felt, especially for the stability he brought at the top of the order in recent years.
Rohit Sharma’s legacy in Test cricket will be remembered for his adaptability, patience, and memorable hundreds in both home and overseas conditions. While his whites are hung up, fans can still look forward to watching the “Hitman” light up ODIs in the tricolour.
