Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, drawing heartfelt tributes from fellow cricketers, fans, and associations. The 38-year-old veteran departs the longest format after a 12-year international career marked by elegance, resilience, and leadership.
Rohit, widely celebrated for his stylish stroke play and calm captaincy, received one of the first tributes from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), the organization instrumental in shaping his early career.
“Mumbai cha Raja (The king of Mumbai) hangs up his Test whites. From pulling fast bowlers into the stands to leading with calm authority — Rohit Sharma’s Test journey was worth every watch, every roar, every rise,” posted the MCA.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also acknowledged the milestone, emphasizing their pride in the man fondly known as the ‘Hitman’.
“Thank you, Captain. End of an era in whites! @ImRo45 bids adieu to Test cricket. He will continue to lead India in ODIs. We are proud of you, Hitman,” shared the BCCI.
Teammates joined the chorus of appreciation. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant wrote on Instagram:
“Your presence and impact will echo in that dressing room forever. Much love, @rohitsharma45 bhai.”
Youngster Dhruv Jurel, who made his Test debut under Rohit’s leadership during the 2024 England series, posted:
“Always my first skipper, Happy Retirement Rohit Bhaiya.”
Over his Test career, Rohit Sharma amassed 4,301 runs from 67 matches, averaging 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. After taking over the Test captaincy from Virat Kohli in 2022, Rohit led India in 24 Tests, winning 12 and losing nine, including the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia.
Former cricketers also reflected on Rohit’s impact:
“Congratulations @ImRo45 on your test career. The 2021 test series in England will be remembered for your heroics. Go well in your next phase,” said Irfan Pathan.
“End of an era! @ImRo45, your grit, grace, and leadership in Test cricket will always remain a big part of India’s cricket journey. Thank you for the memories, Captain! #RohitSharma,” posted Parthiv Patel.
“Congratulations on a legendary Test career, @ImRo45. You’ve made India proud. All the best for your ODI journey. God bless you,” wrote Amit Mishra.
Rohit’s Indian Premier League team, the Mumbai Indians, also paid tribute to their most successful captain.
“Cap 280, Jersey 45, Bowing out from Test cricket. It was a privilege watching you in India whites, Ro!,” posted MI.
With this retirement, Rohit Sharma will now focus on leading India in the One-Day International format, where he continues to be a pivotal force.
–Input IANS
