Mumbai, May 8 (UNI) From flamboyant middle-order hopeful to one of India’s most formidable Test openers, Rohit Sharma’s red-ball journey has been a tale of reinvention, resilience, and quiet dominance.
As he announces his retirement from Test and T20I cricket, the man who once struggled for consistency in whites walks away as a symbol of adaptability and leadership — leaving behind not just 4,301 Test runs, but a legacy that redefined what it means to succeed late, and succeed big.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday extended its heartfelt congratulations to Rohit Sharma for a "stellar and inspirational" Test career. While he steps away from the longest and shortest formats of the game, he will continue to serve Indian cricket in One-Day Internationals.
Rohit’s transformation is one of modern cricket’s most compelling success stories. After debuting in 2013, he spent years in and out of the Test squad, battling perceptions that he was only a white-ball specialist. That changed decisively in 2019, when he was promoted to the top of the order. What followed was a purple patch that included centuries at home, a masterclass in England, and gritty performances in Australia — all delivered with a blend of classical technique and attacking flair.
Over 67 Tests, Rohit amassed 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and a career-best 212. But his legacy stretches far beyond numbers. He brought poise to the crease, purpose to the innings, and patience to his approach — a blend that helped India stabilise their top order during a critical transition phase.
As the 35th captain of the Indian Test team, Rohit led India in 24 matches, securing 12 victories. His tenure, marked by injuries and rebuilding phases, was a study in composure and clarity. Under his leadership, India’s red-ball squad evolved with a renewed sense of belief, depth, and tactical discipline.
"Mr Rohit Sharma’s impact on Indian cricket transcends records and statistics," said BCCI President Roger Binny. "He brought a sense of calm and assurance to the team – both as a player and as a captain. His ability to stay composed under pressure and to consistently put the team’s needs above his own made him a truly special player and leader."
BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia echoed those sentiments: "Rohit Sharma has been a towering figure in India’s Test journey – a captain who placed the team above all else, and a player who personified the values of discipline, humility, and excellence. His legacy is etched permanently in the history of Indian cricket."
As Rohit Sharma walks away from the white flannels, he does so not just as a champion cricketer but as a cultural figure — someone who defied stereotypes, embraced change, and led by example. Indian cricket, and its fans, will remember him not only for his strokes and centuries, but for the character he showed when it mattered most.
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