Rohit Sharma Announces Retirement from Test Cricket Amid BCCI Shake-Up
Veteran Indian opener Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a red-ball career that saw a remarkable late resurgence—but one that has ended under a cloud of uncertainty and internal changes.
The 38-year-old confirmed his decision late Wednesday evening, shortly after reports emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), under chief selector Ajit Agarkar, had decided to strip him of Test captaincy ahead of the England tour. In a short statement, Rohit thanked his fans and teammates but conspicuously omitted any mention of the board—fueling speculation that the decision was not entirely voluntary.
End of an Era for India’s Opener
Rohit Sharma leaves behind an impressive red-ball resume: 4,301 runs in 67 Tests, averaging just over 40, with 12 centuries—many of them pivotal in India’s home victories. His Test revival began in 2019 when he was promoted to opener, a move that transformed his career.
However, his tenure as captain since 2022 was less fruitful. Rohit led India in 24 Tests, scoring 1,254 runs at an average of 30.58, with inconsistent performances. Notably, under his leadership, India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia and suffered a historic 3-0 whitewash at home to New Zealand, both of which raised questions about his place in the squad.
Signs of the End Were Clear
The tipping point seemed to arrive when Rohit voluntarily withdrew from the Sydney Test, hinting that the writing was on the wall. The timing of his retirement announcement—just hours after being reportedly removed from captaincy—adds weight to the belief that it wasn’t entirely on his own terms.
Who Will Replace Rohit Sharma?
Speculation is already mounting about who will take over the leadership. Jasprit Bumrah appears to be the frontrunner, although his injury history could open the door for younger candidates like Shubman Gill or Rishabh Pant.
Read More: https://theneutral.pk/psl-10-points-table-updated-quetta-gladiators-thrash-islamabad-united-2/
A Legacy That Will Divide Opinion
While not the most technically flawless batter, Rohit Sharma carved a unique legacy with his ability to play match-winning innings under pressure. With T20Is already behind him and now Tests as well, only ODIs remain—and fans wonder if a complete international retirement is on the horizon for the “Hitman.”
For now, Rohit joins the list of Indian cricketers who exited the international stage not fully on their own terms, leaving behind both admiration and debate.
