Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma will reportedly retire from Test cricket after the completion of the five-match ongoing series against Australia. BCCI and selectors have already sounded out 36-year-old Rohit about retiring, according to reports in The Times of India and an official announcement can be expected after Sydney’s third Test.
The batting form of Rohit has come under heavy scrutiny in the light of his struggle in the Test series. In six innings, he could muster only 31 runs. That was one run more than Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed 30 wickets in the series. The general feeling is that the Sydney Test could be the last for Rohit in whites, although reportedly he hopes that he will make a case with the selectors for playing in the WTC Final if India qualify.
Back-to-back failures: Rohit Sharma set to retire from Test cricket
After India’s crushing 184-run defeat in the fourth Test, Rohit admitted that he was “disturbed” by the results and his personal form. “As a captain, it’s disappointing when things don’t fall into place as planned. Mentally, it’s tough to accept, especially when you try hard and don’t see success,” he said during a post-match interaction.
Rohit’s batting and leadership skills have been under heavy criticism. He seems to be in a mindset to give his best shot in the last match, possibly leaving with one final fight.
This retirement signals a significant shift for Indian cricket, raising questions about leadership succession and the future of the Test squad. The Sydney Test is fast approaching, and fans and analysts alike will watch closely as Rohit draws curtains on an illustrious career in the longest format.
Also, see: BCCI told to prepare retirement plan for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma amid struggling Test form