Rohit Sharma Retires from Test Cricket: A Chapter Ends
Rohit Sharma retires from Test cricket, closing a remarkable journey. The 38-year-old shared the update on May 7, 2025. He announced it through social media, thanking fans and teammates. “It’s been a dream to wear the whites for India,” he posted.The decision comes before India’s home Test series against England. However, he will remain active in ODIs.
Rohit Sharma Test Journey: From Debut to Departure
Rohit Sharma made his Test debut in 2013 against the West Indies. He made an early mark with a superb 177 in his first match. He played 67 Tests, collecting 4,301 runs at an average above 40. His record includes 12 Test hundreds and 18 fifties. Sharma’s top score in Tests was a brilliant 212 versus South Africa.
In recent years, though, consistency became an issue. His form dipped, averaging under 11 in his final year. He scored just one century in his last 19 innings.That decline led to his exclusion from a key Test vs Australia.
Captaincy in Tests: Rohit’s Role and Influence
Rohit became India’s full-time Test captain in 2022. He led the team in 24 Tests, winning half of them. Under him, India made it to the World Test Championship final in 2023. He was admired for his cool temperament and tactical clarity. Following Virat Kohli’s exit as captain, Sharma offered stability. His calm leadership helped young players settle into the team. He wasn’t just a captain but also a mentor and guide. Many credited him for building a united dressing room.
ODI Cricket Still in Focus for Sharma
Even though he’s done with Tests, Rohit will play ODIs. He holds the record for the highest individual ODI score, 264. He’s also the only player with three ODI double centuries. Recently, he led India to the 2025 Champions Trophy win. Rohit’s ODI numbers are outstanding—over 11,000 runs and 32 centuries. He has 58 half-centuries and averages close to 49 per innings.
His experience remains vital as India prepares for future events.
Who Will Lead India in Tests Now?
With Sharma leaving the red-ball game, India needs a new leader. Young star Shubman Gill is seen as a front-runner. Gill has led in the IPL and shown calmness under pressure. Jasprit Bumrah (Vice Captain of Indian test team) is also a senior figure and could be considered. However, managing captaincy with fast bowling may be difficult. India’s five-Test home series vs England begins on June 20. It will be the start of a fresh phase for Indian Test cricket. All eyes will be on the new captain and team direction.
Conclusion: A Salute to a Modern Great
Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement closes a memorable era in Indian cricket. As a player, opener, and captain, he gave his best for the team. Even without the red ball, his presence in ODIs will remain strong. Fans will remember his stylish play and solid leadership for years. As India turns a page, Sharma’s impact won’t be forgotten. His journey in whites ends, but his legacy will continue to grow.
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