By A former BCCI official criticizes retirement rumors about Rohit Sharma, defending the veteran Indian cricketer and questioning the media’s role in fueling premature speculation.
Rohit Sharma Retires from Test Cricket, Will Continue as ODI Captain: BCCI Confirms
Rohit Sharma has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending an illustrious chapter in his career. The announcement puts to rest weeks of speculation surrounding his future in the longest format. Rohit, 38, shared the news on Instagram on Wednesday, thanking fans and reflecting on his journey in whites. The veteran cricketer will now focus solely on One Day Internationals (ODIs), with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirming that he will continue to lead the national side in the 50-over format.
End of an Era in Tests
Rohit wrote on Instagram: “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.” He posted the message alongside a picture of his cherished Test cap.
This announcement follows his earlier retirement from T20 Internationals after leading India to victory in the ICC T20 World Cup last year. With his exit from Tests, India now faces a crucial leadership void ahead of a challenging five-match Test series against England, starting June 20.
BCCI Pays Tribute to Rohit
Shortly after Rohit’s announcement, the BCCI paid tribute to the stalwart on social media: “Thank you, Captain. End of an era in whites! ImRo45 bids adieu to Test cricket. He will continue to lead India in ODIs. We are proud of you, Hitman.”
Who Will Be India’s Next Test Captain?
Rohit’s retirement has triggered a captaincy race for the upcoming England series. Potential candidates include Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant.
While Bumrah has led the team in the past, his recurring fitness concerns may force selectors to consider safer options. Rahul and Gill are strong contenders, with the former offering experience and the latter seen as the next big brand in Indian cricket. Pant, meanwhile, remains a fan favorite but may face scrutiny under head coach Gautam Gambhir’s performance-first policy.
Why Rohit Chose to Step Down Now
According to sources close to the Indian captain, Rohit had been considering retirement from Test cricket since India’s Champions Trophy win in March. With a new World Test Championship cycle beginning, he felt it was the ideal time to bow out and allow the next generation to step in.
“The retirement from Test cricket was on Rohit’s mind since the Champions Trophy. A new WTC cycle was starting, and hence he thought this was the best time,” the source said.
Selection Uncertainty and Personal Decision
Insiders revealed that the selection committee did not provide clear communication to Rohit regarding his inclusion for the England series. Rather than risk being dropped, Rohit decided to retire on his own terms.
“If Rohit had decided to call it quits in Tests, where does the question of dropping him come?” questioned a former BCCI official, criticizing the lack of transparency from the board.
Tensions Behind the Scenes?
While there has been widespread speculation of a rift between Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir, both have denied any personal issues. However, Gambhir has repeatedly emphasized a performance-based selection policy and vowed to dismantle “star culture” in Indian cricket—fueling further media chatter.
Rohit’s Test Legacy
Rohit Sharma retires with 4,301 runs in 67 Tests at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties. He led India to the 2023 World Test Championship final and played a key role in several high-profile series. His contribution to Indian Test cricket, particularly in the second half of his career, will be remembered as a golden phase.
