End of Test era: Rohit Sharma retires from the longest format

The cricket world was left in a tizzy on Thursday, May 7, 2025, when Rohit Sharma, the captain who led India to their recent 2 ICC trophies, announced his retirement from Test cricket. The announcement via social media ended an 11-year journey for Rohit Sharma, popularly known as the ‘Hitman’. Although he will continue to wear the Indian jersey in the One Day International (ODI) format, his departure from Tests marks the end of an important chapter in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma’s Test career is a story of resilience and evolution. He had a brilliant debut against the West Indies in Kolkata in 2013, scoring 177 runs batting at number six, a record for the highest individual score on a Test debut at that position.

His turning point came in 2019 when he was promoted to open in the format. The move proved to be a masterstroke, giving a new dimension to Rohit’s game in Tests. He fully embraced the responsibility of the top order, showcasing a blend of his natural aggressive instincts with the patience and composure required for Test cricket. His domestic performances as an opener have been particularly impressive, where he scored centuries and consistently gave India solid starts. In his Test career spanning 67 matches, Rohit scored 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. His tally includes 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His best test cricket score was 212 runs, which he scored against South Africa. While his domestic record is stellar with an average of over 50, his overseas performances, though showing flashes of brilliance, have not reached the same consistency.

Apart from batting, Rohit took over Test captaincy, leading India in 24 matches and securing 12 victories. He guided the team through a period of change and injury challenges, leading India to the World Test Championship finals in both 2021 and 2023. His captaincy has often been characterised by a calm demeanour and tactical awareness. His decision to retire from Tests just before India’s five-match series in England has sparked talk and tributes from the cricketing fraternity. Many have acknowledged his significant contribution to Indian cricket as a batsman and a leader in the Test arena. While some feel a more formal farewell on the field would have been appropriate, respect for his decision and his achievements is widespread.

Rohit’s focus is now entirely on the ODI format, where he remains a vital cog in India’s plans with an eye on the 2027 World Cup. His legacy in Test cricket will be remembered for his brilliant stroke-play, his adaptability as a batsman, and his leadership during a crucial phase for the Indian team. An era comes to an end as Rohit Sharma’s Test career comes to an end. His contributions, highs and lows, will always be etched in the history of Indian cricket. The ‘Hitman’ may have hung up his weapons in Test cricket, but his influence will remain forever. He is currently playing in the IPL 2025, but after this mega league, he may be gone for a few months. India’s next ODI series will be against Bangladesh in August. And then Fans can watch their hitman in the Blue jersey.