Tributes Pour In for Rohit Sharma After Test Retirement Announcement

Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most distinguished batters and leaders in the modern era, has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 38-year-old made the announcement on Instagram, drawing the curtain on a career that spanned 67 Tests, 4,301 runs, and included 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries.

“Hello everyone, I would like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. 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,” Rohit wrote in his post.

Having debuted in 2013, Rohit’s Test journey saw a remarkable transformation—initially a middle-order option, he reinvented himself as a reliable opener from 2019 onwards. His composed leadership took India to back-to-back World Test Championship Finals in 2021 and 2023, solidifying his legacy.

Reactions Pour In from the Cricketing World

The cricketing fraternity responded with heartfelt tributes and appreciation for the seasoned campaigner.

Pace ace Jasprit Bumrah hailed Rohit's “commendable” Test career, while Sachin Tendulkar, who handed him his Test cap, praised his remarkable journey. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant spoke of the positivity Rohit brought into the Indian dressing room.

Legendary spinner Anil Kumble tweeted, “From a free flowing opener to a composed captain, Rohit’s growth in Test cricket has been admirable. He played the game his way – with balance, belief and quiet strength.”

Long-time teammate Kuldeep Yadav referred to Rohit as a “brother and mentor,” sharing a heartfelt message:

“Not just a leader, but a brother and mentor. Learned so much just by watching you, bhai! Your legacy in whites will stay with us forever.”

Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal called it a “blessing” to share the crease with Rohit, while Mayank Agarwal, his prolific opening partner during the 2019 South Africa series, recalled their record-breaking run of five century partnerships.

Wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, who debuted under Rohit's leadership in 2024, thanked his “first skipper.” Former teammates and India greats like Yuvraj Singh, Parthiv Patel, RP Singh, Amit Mishra, Munaf Patel, and Irfan Pathan also offered their praise and memories.

Legendary commentator Harsha Bhogle paid tribute to Rohit's pivotal moments:

“That century in Chennai, that one at the Oval, both priceless. You walked out against South Africa to open as if you had done it all your life.”

Even international stars weighed in. AB de Villiers called it a “legendary” career, while Angelo Mathews congratulated Rohit on his achievements.

A Legacy Etched in Time

Rohit Sharma leaves behind a legacy of composure, grit, and evolution. From scoring hundreds on debut to mastering the art of opening in Test cricket, his journey is a testament to patience and perseverance. A place in the ICC Test Team of the Year (2021) and two WTC Final appearances cap off a storied Test career that will inspire future generations.