New Delhi:
In a development that is set to mark the end of an era in Indian cricket, team skipper Rohit Sharma is reportedly on the verge of announcing his retirement from Test cricket. According to recent reports, Sharma has made up his mind to hang up his Test boots after the conclusion of the ongoing five-match Test series against Australia, with the final Test scheduled to take place in Sydney.
The speculation surrounding Sharma’s retirement has been fueled by his recent form and the team’s performance under his captaincy. Despite a stellar start to the year, including a drawn Test series in South Africa and a T20 World Cup victory, the second half of 2024 has been marred by poor performances. India’s 12-year dominance at home was broken by New Zealand, and the team suffered a bilateral ODI series loss to Sri Lanka after 28 years, both under Sharma’s leadership.
Sharma’s personal form has been particularly concerning, with the captain managing only 31 runs in six innings across the first three Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This tally is just one more than the 30 wickets taken by Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah in the same series. Such statistics have led to intense scrutiny of Sharma’s batting and captaincy, with many questioning whether he deserves a place in the Playing XI.
The report suggests that discussions between Sharma, the BCCI top brass, and selectors have already taken place, and it is highly unlikely that Sharma will change his decision. While the exact timing of the announcement is not confirmed, it is expected to come after the Sydney Test. However, if India were to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Sharma might attempt to persuade the selectors to allow him to continue for one more series.
Sharma’s emotional state and body language have also been under the microscope. Former Australia coach Justin Langer observed that Sharma looked “very tired” and “emotional” on the field, which is unusual for a player known for his calm demeanor. Langer’s comments underscore the mental toll that the recent performances have taken on Sharma.
In a recent press conference, Sharma acknowledged his struggles, admitting that he is “disturbed” by the team’s performance and his own form. “A lot of the things that I am trying to do is not falling in the place that I would want to. But mentally, look, you know, it is disturbing without a doubt,” he said. This candid admission highlights the pressure and disappointment Sharma is facing.
The impending retirement of Rohit Sharma raises significant questions about the future of Indian Test cricket. The transition to a new captain and the integration of younger players into the team will be crucial. The example of MS Dhoni, who retired midway through a series and handed over the reins to Virat Kohli, is often cited as a smooth transition model that India might follow.
As the cricket world awaits Sharma’s official announcement, it is clear that his decision will mark a significant chapter in Indian cricket history. Whether he can muster one final performance in Sydney remains to be seen, but the writing on the wall suggests that his time in Test cricket is drawing to a close.
