Is Rohit's Retirement a Turning Point for Indian Cricket?
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Synopsis
Veteran cricketer VVS Laxman celebrates Rohit Sharma's remarkable Test career following his retirement from red-ball cricket. Laxman reminisces about Rohit's early successes and highlights his leadership in Indian cricket. What does this mean for the future of the team as they enter a new WTC cycle?
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma retires from Test cricket.
- He scored 4,301 runs in 67 matches.
- Highlights include 12 centuries and a best score of 212.
- Laxman praises Rohit’s early Test achievements.
- India seeks a new Test captain as they enter a new WTC cycle.
New Delhi, May 8 (NationPress) Renowned cricketer VVS Laxman extended his congratulations to Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Thursday, praising his remarkable Test career following the announcement of his retirement from the red-ball format. Reflecting on Rohit's early days in the most prestigious version of cricket, Laxman highlighted that his centuries in the inaugural two Tests against the West Indies at Eden Gardens and Wankhede in 2013 were clear indicators of the illustrious career that lay ahead.
Rohit revealed his retirement decision on Wednesday, catching many off-guard with India's five-Test series against England set to commence on June 20 at Headingley. He concluded his Test journey with 4,301 runs across 67 matches, maintaining an average of 40.57, despite experiencing a decline in form in recent matches. Throughout his career, he registered 12 centuries and 18 fifties, achieving a personal best score of 212 against South Africa in Ranchi in October 2019.
In a heartfelt message on X, Laxman expressed, "Dear @ImRo45, Heartfelt Congratulations on a remarkable Test career. Those first two Tests with centuries were an omen of greatness, and witnessing your success as an opener, delivering match-winning innings, was unforgettable. Your exemplary leadership has been pivotal for Indian cricket. Wishing you all the best in your Test retirement!"
Rohit plans to continue playing in the ODI format. He had previously announced his retirement from T20Is following last year’s T20 World Cup victory. Under his captaincy, India claimed the Champions Trophy, defeating New Zealand to secure their third title in the tournament.
As India's Test captain since 2022, Rohit navigated the team through a significant transitional period marked by injuries, leading India in 24 Tests and achieving 12 wins. His decade-long career in whites featured two ICC World Test Championship Final appearances and a historic Test series victory in Australia in 2020/21.
With the onset of the new WTC cycle during the England tour, India faces the responsibility of selecting a long-term captain, with Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah emerging as leading candidates for the role.
Point of View
I firmly believe that Rohit Sharma's retirement from Test cricket marks a significant moment in Indian cricket history. His contributions as a player and leader have been invaluable, and while the transition may pose challenges, it also presents opportunities for emerging talents like Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah to step up. The focus should now shift towards nurturing future leaders.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Rohit Sharma's retirement from Test cricket?
Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from red-ball cricket to focus on his performance in limited-overs formats and to allow space for new talent in the Test team.
How many runs did Rohit Sharma score in his Test career?
Rohit Sharma scored a total of 4,301 runs in his Test career, averaging 40.57.
What were Rohit Sharma's major achievements in Test cricket?
Rohit's major achievements include 12 centuries, 18 fifties, and two ICC World Test Championship Final appearances, along with a historic Test series win in Australia.
Who are the potential candidates to lead India in Tests after Rohit?
Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are currently viewed as frontrunners to take over the captaincy of the Indian Test team.
What impact did Rohit have on Indian cricket?
Rohit Sharma's leadership and performances have greatly influenced Indian cricket, providing crucial match-winning innings and guiding the team through transitions.
