Rohit Sharma has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket. This decision comes less than a year after he called time on his T20I career, just after leading the team to a historic T20 World Cup 2024 victory. The experienced campaigner will continue plying his trade in the 50-over format.
Rohit Sharma confirmed the news on Instagram where he posted a photo of his Test cap along with a short message that reads, “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.”
Rohit Sharma made his Test debut in 2013 and played 67 matches. He scored 4,301 runs at an average of 40.6, with 12 centuries, 18 fifties, and a double hundred to his name. He led India in 24 Tests, wherein India won 12 games, lost nine, and drew thrice.
Shubman Gill likely to lead after Rohit Sharma calls time on Test career
With Rohit stepping down, the big question is, who will take over as India’s next Test captain? All signs point toward Shubman Gill.
At just 25, Gill has already made a name for himself. He’s seen as the future of Indian cricket, both as a batter and a potential leader. He has more than 5,000 international runs and even captains Gujarat Titans in the IPL.
India’s next Test series is a five-match contest against England, starting on June 20. That series will also mark the beginning of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, making it the perfect time to hand over the leadership to a younger player.
There are other names in the mix too. Jasprit Bumrah has captained before, but his injury concerns make him a risky long-term choice. KL Rahul has experience but hasn’t been consistent. Hardik Pandya is being seen more as a white-ball captain and is not part of the Test setup right now.
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Reports say that the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is seriously considering Shubman Gill as the next Test captain. However, the final decision will come after discussions with the BCCI top officials.
Shubman Gill has been solid at home, but his overseas Test record still needs improvement. His best overseas performance came during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar series in Australia, where he impressed on debut. However, he hasn’t quite repeated that success abroad. Meanwhile, Indian fans will be curious to see who takes the baton next and how the team shapes up under fresh leadership.
