In a significant development for Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 38, just ahead of the five-match series against England. This decision concludes a distinguished Test career spanning 67 matches, where he amassed 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries.
India’s cricket captain, Rohit Sharma, has announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 38, effective immediately. He made the announcement on May 7, 2025, via an Instagram story, expressing gratitude for the honor of representing India in whites and confirming his decision to continue playing One Day Internationals (ODIs)
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A Journey of Peaks and Valleys
Rohit Sharma’s Test career was marked by notable highs and challenging lows. He made a sensational debut in November 2013, scoring 177 runs against the West Indies, followed by an unbeaten 111 in his second Test. However, consistency eluded him in the initial years, leading to intermittent appearances in the Test squad.
A turning point came in October 2019 when Sharma was promoted to open the innings. He seized the opportunity, scoring 529 runs in a three-match series against South Africa, including a career-best 212. This resurgence solidified his position as a reliable opener in the Test format.
Rohit Sharma’s Test Career
Test Matches Played: 67
Total Runs Scored: 4,301
Batting Average: 40.57
Centuries: 12
Highest Score: 212 (against South Africa in Ranchi, October 2019)
Sharma’s decision comes after a period of declining form in Test cricket, where he averaged just 10.93 in his last 19 innings. His retirement allows the Indian selectors to appoint a new captain ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series against England, scheduled to begin on June 20, 2025, in Leeds.
In February 2022, Sharma was appointed as India’s Test captain, succeeding Virat Kohli. Under his leadership, India reached the World Test Championship Final in 2023. However, his recent form raised concerns, with an average of just 10.93 over the past year and only one fifty in his last 15 innings. These struggles led to his exclusion from the final Test against Australia earlier this year.
Despite earlier affirmations of his commitment to Test cricket, Sharma announced his retirement via Instagram, stating, “It’s been an absolute honour 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.” This decision came amid speculation about his place in the Test side, especially with the England series approaching.
Sharma’s retirement elicited heartfelt responses from the cricketing community. India coach Gautam Gambhir described him as “a master, a leader & a gem,” while wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant praised Sharma’s positive influence on the team. Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel termed his retirement as ‘the end of an era.’
With Sharma stepping down, the Indian team faces the challenge of transitioning leadership. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is a potential successor, though concerns over managing a fast bowler’s workload exist. Alternatively, 25-year-old Shubman Gill, who has shown promise in the IPL, is considered a strong candidate for the role.
While Sharma bids farewell to Test cricket, he remains an integral part of India’s One Day International setup, where his prowess continues to shine. His retirement marks a pivotal moment, prompting reflections on his legacy and the future trajectory of Indian cricket.
