Rohit Sharma Bids Adieu to Test Cricket, Kapil Dev Praises His Leadership

India’s veteran opener and Test captain Rohit Sharma has officially retired from Test cricket, drawing curtains on a remarkable red-ball career that spanned over a decade. The 38-year-old made the announcement on Wednesday via Instagram, just hours after PTI broke the news.

“Hello everyone, I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites,” Rohit posted, sharing a picture of his cherished India Test cap.

Kapil Dev Lauds Rohit’s Captaincy and Character

Former India skipper Kapil Dev paid rich tribute to Rohit’s career, especially his evolution as a leader. Speaking to PTI, Kapil highlighted the dignity and poise with which Rohit conducted himself on and off the field.

“He did a wonderful job, played good cricket. Over the period of time, the way he conducted himself, the way he captained, and most importantly, the way he played his cricket — very few in India have played like this,” said Kapil.

He added, “I congratulate him on a wonderful career.”

A Stellar Test Career

Rohit Sharma retires as one of India’s most prolific Test batters in the second half of his career. He scored 4,301 runs in 67 Tests, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties, at a solid average of 40.57. His transition from a limited-overs specialist to a dependable Test opener was one of Indian cricket’s most inspiring stories in recent years.

His ability to blunt the new ball in overseas conditions and dominate at home made him a key figure in India’s Test resurgence under Virat Kohli and later under his own leadership.

India Face Captaincy Void Ahead of England Series

Rohit’s retirement from the longest format comes just weeks before India begin their five-match Test series against England starting June 20 at Headingley. The selectors will now have to identify a new full-time captain for the red-ball format — and soon.

When asked about potential successors, Kapil Dev refrained from naming anyone, placing full trust in the selection committee.

“Some things should be left to the selectors. They’ll find the right person. It’s their job to pick the best captain for Team India,” he said. “Taking Rohit’s place will be tough, but someone must take on that responsibility.”

Still Hungry for ODI Glory

Although he has stepped away from Test and T20 cricket, Rohit will continue to lead India in the ODI format, with the next 50-over World Cup scheduled for 2027.

Kapil acknowledged Rohit’s desire to continue playing, especially in ODIs, saying:

“It’s good he wants to play. Everyone wants to play the World Cup and win. But again, this too depends on the selectors. He still has the hunger, and that’s a good sign.”

Kapil Dev Urges Patience With IPL’s Young Talents

As the IPL 2025 season unfolds, Kapil also addressed the rise of young players who are making waves. He advised the cricketing community to show patience and protect emerging stars from early pressure.

“We need to give them time. The talent is there, but whether they’ll become the next Tendulkar, Gavaskar, or Rohit — only time will tell. These youngsters need to be protected,” he emphasized.

What Lies Ahead

Rohit Sharma’s exit from Test cricket marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket. His calm demeanor, technical adaptability, and strong leadership have left a lasting legacy in whites. As India now prepares for a new era, the spotlight turns to who will lead the team in their toughest overseas assignment of the year.

One thing’s certain: Rohit’s contributions to Indian Test cricket will be remembered for a long time.

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