NEW DELHI– The cricketing fraternity poured in heartfelt tributes on Wednesday following Rohit Sharma’s announcement that he is retiring from Test cricket. The 38-year-old Indian skipper steps away from the longest format after a distinguished 12-year career that earned him admiration for both his elegant batting and calm leadership.
Among the first to honor the Mumbai-born cricketer was the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), which played a pivotal role in shaping his early career. “Mumbai cha Raja (The King of Mumbai) hangs up his Test whites,” the MCA posted on social media. “From pulling fast bowlers into the stands to leading with calm authority — Rohit Sharma’s Test journey was worth every watch, every roar, every rise.”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also paid tribute, calling it the “end of an era in whites” and affirming that Rohit would continue to lead the national team in ODIs. “Thank you, Captain. We are proud of you, Hitman,” the BCCI wrote.
Current and former players echoed the sentiment. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant described Rohit’s influence as lasting far beyond his playing days. “Your presence and impact will echo in that dressing room forever. Much love, @rohitsharma45 bhai,” Pant shared on Instagram.
Youngster Dhruv Jurel, who made his Test debut under Rohit during the 2024 England series, also extended his thanks. “Always my first skipper, Happy Retirement Rohit Bhaiya,” he posted.
Rohit finishes his Test career with 4,301 runs in 67 matches, averaging 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties. Appointed Test captain in 2022 after Virat Kohli stepped down, he led India in 24 matches, winning 12 and losing nine. He also captained the side during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia.
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan highlighted Rohit’s standout performances during India’s 2021 tour of England. “Congratulations @ImRo45 on your Test career. The 2021 series in England will be remembered for your heroics. Go well in your next phase,” Pathan wrote.
Former wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel called Rohit’s retirement the “end of an era,” praising his “grit, grace, and leadership” in the red-ball format. Spinner Amit Mishra added, “Congratulations on a legendary Test career, @ImRo45. You’ve made India proud. All the best for your ODI journey.”
Even Rohit’s IPL franchise, the Mumbai Indians, where he cemented his legacy as one of the most successful captains in league history, paid tribute. “Cap 280, Jersey 45, Bowing out from Test cricket. It was a privilege watching you in India whites, Ro!” the franchise posted.
As Rohit Sharma transitions out of the Test arena, the accolades reflect a career that has left a lasting imprint on Indian cricket—defined by elegance at the crease, composure under pressure, and leadership that inspired a generation. (Source: IANS)
