Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 38-year-old confirmed his decision through a social media post on Wednesday.
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Rohit will continue to lead India in the ODI format. His Test exit has sparked discussions about leadership transition in the national team.
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Rohit’s retirement comes just weeks before India’s upcoming five-Test series against England in June. With the BCCI now on the hunt for a new red-ball skipper, attention is shifting to the next generation of leaders -- mostly Shubman Gill -- who is reportedly leading the race.
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What did Rohit Sharma say on India’s leadership shift?
In a recent interview with journalist Vimal Kumar, Rohit addressed the perception that selectors prefer younger captains and admitted he had doubts about whether he would ever get the chance to lead India.
“Yes, I felt so. Sometimes it happens that everyone wants a young captain. If someone captains for 10-15 years, then I felt that I may not get it now. But I will always be grateful that I got the chance,” Rohit said.
He acknowledged that age was a limiting factor but expressed gratitude for the opportunity he had.
“I also know that I cannot captain for 10 years. But whatever time I get, I have to make the most of it. I have to show my full potential somehow,” he added.
Rohit played 67 Tests for India. He scored 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. He scored 12 centuries and 18 fifties -- establishing himself as a dependable opener -- especially in the second half of his career.
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Rohit's Instagram statement expressed pride and gratitude but it didn’t address the reasons behind his sudden decision. On social media, fans have speculated whether pressure from team management or recent results -- like the BGT loss and a series defeat in New Zealand -- played a role.
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For now, the BCCI’s next move will be closely watched as India prepares to usher in a new Test era.