Rohit Sharma announces retirement from test cricket

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma stunned the cricketing world on May 7 by announcing his immediate retirement from Test cricket through an Instagram story. The 38-year-old veteran, who led India to numerous milestones in the longest format, confirmed he will continue to represent—and captain—India in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).

The decision marks the end of a distinguished 12-year Test career and comes amid growing speculation about his removal as Test captain ahead of the upcoming England tour. His announcement has sparked a wave of reactions from fans, teammates, and cricketing officials.

A glorious test career

Rohit made his Test debut in 2013 against the West Indies at Eden Gardens, scoring a century. Over 67 Tests, he accumulated 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His highest score—212—came against South Africa in Ranchi in 2019.

Though he began as a middle-order batsman, Rohit’s Test career gained a second wind in 2019 when he was promoted to opener, a move that saw him average 47.04 in that role. Notable performances include a gritty 161 on a turning pitch in Chennai in 2021 and a match-winning 127 at The Oval against England.

As Test captain, Rohit led India in 24 matches, securing 12 victories. His leadership highlights include Test series wins against Australia (2023) and England (2024), and guiding India to the World Test Championship final in 2023.

Road to retirement

Despite earlier successes, Rohit’s form deteriorated during the 2024–25 season. India suffered a 0-3 home series defeat to New Zealand—their first such loss in 12 years—and a 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Rohit managed only 31 runs across five innings, intensifying scrutiny over both his captaincy and batting.

Reports suggest that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, had already decided to appoint a new Test captain for the upcoming five-match series against England beginning June 20, 2025. That decision is believed to have influenced Rohit’s retirement.

Rohit announced his retirement in a heartfelt Instagram message:

“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.”

Interestingly, Rohit had denied retirement rumors earlier in the year. On January 4, 2025, during India’s tour of Australia, he clarified that he had opted out of the Sydney Test due to poor form, not retirement intentions. However, sources suggest that a shift in mindset after the Melbourne Test defeat, coupled with pressure from selectors, played a key role in his final decision.