BCCI : Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 7, just before India’s five-match Test series against England starting June 20. His sudden decision sparked speculation about the reasons behind it. Rohit had submitted a retirement plan to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) similar to former captain MS Dhoni’s 2014 mid-series retirement during India’s Australia tour. Rohit wished to lead the team in the initial matches in England before retiring during the series.
However, the BCCI rejected this proposal, emphasizing the need for consistent leadership throughout the series. Though the Board allowed Rohit to participate in the series, it did not agree to him continuing as captain. Consequently, Rohit chose to retire immediately, just weeks before the squad announcement. Sources close to Indian cricket revealed that while Rohit was mentally ready for one last Test challenge, the BCCI was unwilling to let him end his career on his own terms.
Rohit Sharma’s retirement has left a leadership gap in the Indian Test team. With Jasprit Bumrah reportedly stepping back from captaincy contention, the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is now considering Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill as the leading candidates to succeed him as Test captain.
The selectors have held informal discussions with both Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, who are being considered as possible leaders for Team India. However, no final decision has been made yet, as opinions remain divided.
One selector has expressed doubts about Gill’s captaincy because his place in the playing XI is not certain. The selector suggested that Gill might be more suitable for the role of vice-captain instead.
Rohit Sharma’s Test career statistics
Rohit Sharma featured in 61 Test matches, scoring a total of 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. During this time, he recorded 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, with his highest score being 212.
End of an Era: Virat Kohli followed suit and announced his retirement.
Just five days after Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket. Both stars had already retired from T20 Internationals after India’s World Cup victory in June 2024, and will now continue playing only in ODIs.