New Delhi: Former India cricketer and 1983 World Cup champion Madan Lal has paid glowing tribute to Rohit Sharma following the veteran batter’s retirement from Test cricket. Lauding Rohit’s unique batting style and leadership, Lal said the 38-year-old leaves behind a legacy few can match.
“I haven’t seen a batsman like Rohit Sharma,” Lal told ANI. “He has entertained us immensely. No one plays the cut, hook, and pull shots like him.”
Rohit announced his retirement from the longest format on Wednesday via an Instagram post, marking the end of a distinguished Test career that began in November 2013 against the West Indies. Over the span of 67 Tests, Rohit amassed 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties. His highest score, 212, came against South Africa in a dominant home series in 2019.
Reflecting on Rohit’s decision to step away, Lal noted, “Retirement is a deeply personal and often difficult decision, especially for someone of Rohit’s calibre.”
While Rohit initially struggled to cement his place in the Test side, especially in overseas conditions, his resurgence from 2019 onward, particularly as a Test opener, transformed his red-ball career. Between 2013 and 2018, Rohit played 27 Tests, scoring 1,585 runs at an average of 39.63. But his dominant run at home — where he averaged over 51 and struck 10 centuries in 34 matches — cemented his reputation as a formidable Test player.
Lal also praised Rohit’s leadership, highlighting his contributions as captain. “He has led India with great tactical sense and made key decisions that contributed to many of our victories.”
Rohit’s overseas record, though modest compared to his home dominance, saw its high point during the 2021–22 Pataudi Trophy in England. He was India’s top scorer in the series with 368 runs in four Tests, averaging 52.57, including a crucial century at The Oval — his only Test hundred in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries.
Though he struggled at times outside India — averaging just over 31 in 31 overseas Tests — his adaptability and flair were always evident. He also played two Tests at neutral venues, scoring 122 runs.
As he steps away from Test cricket, Rohit Sharma leaves as India’s 16th-highest run-getter in the format and one of the most stylish and impactful batters of his generation.
