Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers and Test captain, has announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a significant era in Indian red-ball cricket. The announcement, made on May 7, 2025, took fans and the cricketing fraternity by surprise, especially given Rohit’s recent statements about his ambitions to lead India on the upcoming England tour.
How Rohit Sharma Announced His Test Retirement
Rohit Sharma officially communicated his decision to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) via email before making it public. This preemptive move reportedly caught the BCCI top management off-guard, as they were in the midst of planning squad selections for the England tour. Shortly after informing the board, Rohit took to Instagram to share his decision with fans:
“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. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”
Rohit Sharma’s Test Career: Records and Achievements
Rohit Sharma’s Test journey began in 2013 against the West Indies, where he scored centuries in his first two matches. Although his early years were marked by inconsistency, his career transformed after being promoted to opener in 2019. As an opener, he amassed 2,552 runs in 32 matches at an average of 50.03, including nine centuries.
Overall Test Career Stats:
| Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries | Fifties | Highest Score | Sixes | Tests as Captain | Wins as Captain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 67 | 4,301 | 40.53 | 12 | 18 | 212 | 91 | 24 | 12 |
- Rohit holds the record for the most sixes in Test cricket by an Indian, tied with Virender Sehwag (91 sixes).
- India never lost a Test in which Rohit scored a century.
- He holds the record for the most consecutive Test innings without a single-digit score (30 innings)8.
- As captain, he led India in 24 Tests, winning 12.
His last Test appearance was in December 2024 during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Melbourne. He did not play the final Test of the series, dropping himself in favor of Shubman Gill, as India lost the series 1-3.
Fan and Expert Reactions
Rohit’s sudden retirement sparked a wave of tributes and emotional reactions across social media and the cricketing world:
- Suresh Raina praised Rohit’s impact, stating his legacy goes beyond numbers and calling him a true champion.
- Virender Sehwag expressed surprise, suggesting that selectors’ plans for the England tour may have influenced Rohit’s decision, but lauded his batting prowess.
- Yuvraj Singh wished Rohit well for his next chapter, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket6.
- The BCCI, through President Roger Binny, commended Rohit’s professionalism, leadership, and the culture of discipline he fostered within the team.
Fans, meanwhile, flooded social media with messages of gratitude, nostalgia, and support, using hashtags like #ThankYouRohit and #HitmanForever.
Why Did Rohit Retire Now?
While Rohit had publicly expressed his desire to continue leading India in Tests, especially on the England tour, reports suggest the selectors were considering a leadership change. This, coupled with his recent dip in Test form-only one century in his last 19 innings-and criticism following the Australia series defeat, may have influenced his decision to step away from the format.
What’s Next for Rohit Sharma?
At 38, Rohit Sharma has made it clear that he intends to focus on ODIs, aiming to play through the 2027 World Cup. However, experts note that maintaining form and fitness while playing a single format could be a challenge.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket closes a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket. From a late-blooming Test career to a successful stint as opener and captain, Rohit leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and memorable performances. As he shifts his focus to ODIs, fans and experts alike will be watching to see what the next phase holds for the “Hitman.”
