Indian supporters were busy speculating about IPL while Rohit Sharma dropped some huge news. With BCCI getting ready to face England's upcoming Test series, Rohit revealed that he was retiring from playing Test cricket. Reports ensured that selectors already planned to strip him of Test captaincy, which was then later ratified by BCCI. A little later after this report, Rohit put up the following post on Instagram:
"I am retiring from Test cricket. Representing India in whites has been an honour. Thank you for the support. I will continue playing ODIs."
Rohit, aged 38, made his first appearance in Test matches in 2013 against the West Indies. He has been in action in 67 Tests, while keeping a great average of 40.57 after scoring 4301 runs. His tally also features 12 hundreds and 18 half-centuries. His high score of 212, was made during the South Africa series in 2019. The last time he played Test cricket was in December of last year against Australia. He had already retired from T20s after winning the World Cup and will now focus only on ODIs. Earlier this year, he also won the Champions Trophy as ODI captain.
Sudden Exit Raises Questions
Rohit’s retirement from Tests has surprised many fans. He was expected to lead India in the five-Test series against England next month. The BCCI had even included him in a 35-member shortlist for preparatory matches. Initial reports suggested that Rohit would remain captain. However, things changed quickly. The selection committee decided to appoint a new captain. Rohit’s recent performances may have influenced this decision.
He had poor results as both batsman and captain in the last two series. India lost badly at home to New Zealand and then in Australia. Rohit scored over 50 only once in his last eight Tests. There had been speculation about his retirement after he pulled out of the final Test in Australia, but he denied those rumors at the time. He seemed ready to lead the team against England but announced his retirement soon after learning he would no longer be captain. Considering his age and form, selectors may have chosen to start the new World Test Championship with a younger leader.
New Captain Choices Under Review
With Rohit stepping down, BCCI now needs a new Test captain. Jasprit Bumrah, who acted as a temporary captain, is not likely to be selected because of fitness issues. Virat Kohli is not expected to return as captain, and Rishabh Pant’s inconsistent form puts him out of the race. KL Rahul is another senior option but has only just returned to the team.
One strong candidate is Shubman Gill. At 25, he is in excellent form and currently leads Gujarat Titans in the IPL. Many believe he could be a long-term leader for the Test side.
"Thank you, captain. Rohit Sharma has retired from Tests. He will continue to lead in ODIs. We are proud of you, Hitman." – BCCI
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