A wonderful chapter in Rohit Sharma’s illustrious career came to an end on May 7, 2025, when the vibrant captain and prolific batsman shocked Indian cricket fans by announcing his retirement from Test cricket via an Instagram story. Rohit, also referred to as the “Hitman,” made his choice during the 2025 Indian Premier League, right before India’s next Test visit to England. Looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, he reaffirmed his commitment to leading India in ODIs as he bid farewell to the longest format.
Why Did Rohit Sharma Retire from Test Cricket?
Rohit’s retirement followed a challenging period. His form in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia was dismal, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests. This lean patch, coupled with India’s struggles under his captaincy—losing five of their last six Tests, including a home series to New Zealand—intensified scrutiny. Reports suggest the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, was poised to replace him as Test captain for the England tour starting June 20, 2025, prompting his exit.
In his Instagram post, Rohit shared his retirement from test cricket: “It’s been an absolute honor 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.”
Despite being abrupt, his choice was practical because he had already stated that he would withdraw if he felt “not good enough to play.”
What’s next for Rohit Sharma
With the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia as his stated objective, Rohit is still India’s ODI captain. Legends like Ricky Ponting and coach Gautam Gambhir have hailed his aggressive hitting style, which has changed the face of India’s white-ball cricket.
In the IPL, Rohit continues to shine for the Mumbai Indians, although false April Fools’ reports in 2025 sparked retirement rumors that were later debunked as pranks. His financial planning, including real estate and tech startup investments, ensures stability post-cricket, with potential future roles in commentary or coaching.
