Rohit Sharma Retires from Test Cricket

On May 7, 2025, Indian cricket fans woke up to bittersweet news: Rohit Sharma, the charismatic "Hitman," announced his retirement from Test cricket. At 38, the stylish batsman and astute captain decided to step away from the longest format, leaving behind a legacy that will echo through the ages. While he will continue to lead India in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), his departure from Test cricket marks the end of an era. This blog dives deep into Rohit Sharma’s retirement, exploring his age, career highlights, and remarkable statistics that cement his place as one of India’s cricketing greats.

Why Did Rohit Sharma Retire from Test Cricket?

Rohit Sharma’s decision to retire from Test cricket came as a surprise to many, especially after his triumphant leadership in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, the move wasn’t entirely unexpected. Reports surfaced that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors were considering a new captain for the upcoming five-Test series against England, starting June 2025, due to Rohit’s recent struggles in red-ball cricket. His form had dipped, averaging just 6.20 in five innings during India’s 1-3 loss in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia and 15.16 in a historic home series whitewash against New Zealand.

Rohit Sharma’s Age and Journey to Stardom

Born on April 30, 1987, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Rohit Sharma was 38 years old at the time of his Test retirement. His journey from a Mumbai suburb to cricketing stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Spotted by coach Dinesh Lad during a summer camp, Rohit transitioned from an off-spinner to a prolific batsman, dominating school tournaments with effortless centuries. His domestic exploits, including a double century for Mumbai in the 2006-07 Ranji Trophy, earned him a call-up to the Indian team in 2007.

Rohit’s early international career was marked by inconsistency, but a pivotal decision by captain MS Dhoni to promote him as an opener in 2013 transformed his fortunes. This move unlocked his potential, particularly in white-ball cricket, where he became a record-breaking force. His Test career, however, took longer to flourish, with his debut coming in 2013 against the West Indies, where he scored a sparkling 177.

A Glittering Test Career: Stats and Highlights

Rohit Sharma’s Test career spanned 67 matches, during which he amassed 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. His tally includes 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, with a career-best 212 against South Africa in 2019. Here’s a closer look at his Test statistics:

• Matches Played: 67

• Runs Scored: 4,301

• Batting Average: 40.57

• Centuries: 12

• Half-Centuries: 18

• Highest Score: 212

• Fours: 472

• Sixes: 88

Rohit’s Test journey had its highs and lows. Initially a middle-order batsman, he struggled for consistency until 2019, when he reinvented himself as an opener. His first series in this role saw him score three centuries, including a double ton, against South Africa. In 2021, he enjoyed a prolific year, scoring 906 runs at an average of 47.68, highlighted by his first overseas century—a gritty 127 against England at The Oval.

As captain, appointed in 2022 after Virat Kohli’s resignation, Rohit led India in 24 Tests, winning 12. His leadership shone in India’s monumental 2020-21 Test series victory in Australia, a triumph that showcased his tactical acumen. BCCI President Roger Binny praised his impact, stating, “Rohit Sharma’s influence transcends records. He brought calm and assurance to the team, leaving a culture of discipline that will inspire future generations.”

Beyond Tests: Rohit’s Unmatched White-Ball Legacy

While Rohit’s Test career is impressive, his white-ball exploits are legendary. In ODIs, he has scored 11,168 runs in 273 matches at an average of 49, with a record three double centuries, including a staggering 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014. In T20 Internationals, he retired in 2024 after leading India to their second T20 World Cup title, finishing with 4,231 runs and a record 200 sixes.

His captaincy record is equally illustrious. Rohit led India to the 2018 and 2023 Asia Cups, the 2018 Nidahas Trophy, and the 2024 T20 World Cup. His crowning moment came in March 2025, when he guided India to the ICC Champions Trophy, top-scoring in the final against New Zealand. These achievements underscore why fans call him the “Hitman”—a batsman who could dismantle any bowling attack with elegance and power.

The Impact of Rohit Sharma’s Retirement

Rohit’s exit from Test cricket leaves a void in India’s batting lineup and leadership. His ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed made him a versatile asset. Former coach Ravi Shastri, speculating on his retirement earlier in 2025, urged Rohit to “go out with a blaze of glory,” emphasizing his natural attacking style. While his recent form was a concern, Shastri’s words highlight the belief that Rohit could still turn things around—a testament to his enduring talent.

For fans, Rohit’s retirement is emotional. Social media posts on X reflected the sentiment, with one user writing, “End of an era in whites. Thank you, Hitman, for the memories.” Another noted, “Rohit’s leadership and pull shots will be missed in Tests, but his ODI journey continues to inspire.”

What’s Next for Rohit Sharma?

At 38, Rohit remains a vital cog in India’s ODI setup. With the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, he is likely to focus on cementing his legacy in the 50-over format. His recent performances, including a century against England and a match-winning 76 in the 2025 Champions Trophy final, suggest he’s far from done. Off the field, Rohit continues to inspire as a family man, recently welcoming his second child, Ahaan, in November 2024, and as a brand ambassador for the T20 Mumbai League.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rohit remains a cornerstone for Mumbai Indians, where he has scored 6,628 runs and won five titles as captain. Despite relinquishing the captaincy to Hardik Pandya in 2024, his batting prowess—evident in a 70-run knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025—ensures he remains a fan favorite.

A Legacy That Transcends Numbers

Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket closes a significant chapter in Indian cricket. His journey from a talented teenager to a cricketing icon embodies resilience, adaptability, and leadership. While his Test stats are impressive, it’s his ability to inspire—through elegant cover drives, towering sixes, and calm captaincy—that defines his legacy.

As Roger Binny aptly said, “Indian cricket has been fortunate to have a figure like Rohit.” Whether he’s smashing records in ODIs or mentoring the next generation, the Hitman’s influence will endure. For now, fans can cherish his continued presence in white-ball cricket, where he’ll undoubtedly add more chapters to his storied career.

Early Years: The Rise in White-Ball Cricket

He made his international debut in 2007 in limited-overs formats and quickly made a name for himself as a stylish and elegant stroke-maker. There was no doubting his talent, as many cricket pundits viewed him as the “next big thing” in Indian cricket. While he enjoyed great success in ODIs and T20s, he continued to wait for a Test debut. 

Rohit was held up by injuries, form, and fierce competition for a position in the Indian team. Finally, after more than 6 years - in November 2013 - Rohit was considered for his Test debut.

Turning Point: Promotion to Opener in 2019

Rohit's Test career, despite a dream start, was slow to fully take off. For the next few years, he was in and out of the Test side for a few reasons, one being some inconsistent performances especially in overseas conditions . But the major reason and factor was the indecision from management as to where to plant him in the batting order.

Over the years, he was moved around all over the middle order, often without a set plan or much opportunity to start his innings. While he did have good knocks occasionally he could never cement either his place like in ODIs. 

During this time, Rohit had his fair share of critics, in no small part questioning if he could succeed in Test matches, especially in those more difficult to play in conditions outside India. But almost nobody stopped and thought about the obvious fact that he was never given a run ultimately nor was he ever played in a position to do so.

Retirement from Test Cricket: A Graceful Exit

In 2025, at the age of 38, Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket. It wasn’t a dramatic exit—but a respectful bow from the format he once struggled to own and later conquered with quiet confidence.

His Test career ended with:

• 59 matches

• 4,221 runs

• 12 centuries

• A reputation for being one of the most elegant Indian openers in the last decade
  
  

His Age at Retirement and the Timing

Born on April 30, 1987, Rohit Sharma turned 38 this year. Given the physical demands of international cricket, especially as a senior player and captain across formats, the decision to step away from Tests seems both thoughtful and strategic.

This retirement also allows him to focus on ODIs and T20Is for a bit longer, particularly with the T20 World Cup and other ICC events on the horizon.

Key Test Stats and Milestones

Here’s a snapshot of Rohit Sharma’s brilliant Test career:

• Matches Played: 59

• Runs Scored: 4,200+

• Centuries: 12

• Half-centuries: 16

• Highest Score: 212 vs South Africa in 2019

• Batting Average: Close to 45

• Captaincy Record: Led India in crucial home series wins and the WTC Final in 2023
  
  

His record may not be the most extensive, but it’s filled with quality. Rohit was especially dominant at home, where he often provided India with solid starts on spinning tracks—something not many openers have managed in the past decade.

Transition to Opening Batsman: A Masterstroke

One of the biggest turning points in Rohit’s Test career came in 2019 when he was promoted to open the innings. Until then, he had been shuffled around in the middle order without consistent opportunities.

His twin centuries against South Africa in his first series as an opener changed everything. Suddenly, he wasn’t just part of the Test team—he became one of its pillars.

That move added fresh life to his Test journey and cemented his place in the squad.

Captain Rohit Sharma: Calm, Calculated, and Reliable

When Virat Kohli stepped down as Test captain in early 2022, Rohit Sharma took on the role. Though his stint was relatively short, he led India with calm authority. His leadership in the 2023 World Test Championship Final may not have ended with a trophy, but his maturity and reading of the game stood out.

Rohit brought a sense of stability during a transition phase, guiding younger players and maintaining team unity.

Rohit Sharma’s Complete Test Match Stats & Career Milestones

Rohit Sharma may have joined the Test arena a little later than expected, but when he did, he made every match count. From his unforgettable debut century to his solid performances as an opener and captain, Rohit’s red-ball career is full of noteworthy moments.

Let’s walk through his full Test stats and milestones in detail.

Basic Test Career Stats

Rohit Sharma's Test Century List (All 12 Centuries)

Key Milestones & Achievements in Test Cricket

Debut Century in 2013

• Date: November 6, 2013

• Opponent: West Indies

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

• Score: 177 runs

• Rohit became only the 14th Indian to score a century on Test debut. His knock was elegant and confident, making an immediate statement.
  
  

Back-to-Back Centuries on Debut Series

• Scored 177 and 111* in his first two Test matches.

• This feat placed him among the few players to hit centuries in their first two Tests.
  

Late Bloom as Opener (2019)

• In 2019, Rohit was promoted to opener in Tests during the home series against South Africa.

• Scored three centuries in three Tests, including his career-best 212.

• It was a career-defining move, transforming his Test career trajectory.
  
  

Dominant Home Record

• Average at home: Over 60

• Known for controlling spin attacks, Rohit mastered conditions that many foreign openers failed to adapt to.

• Scored most of his Test centuries in India, but he steadily improved overseas too.
  
  

Captaincy Stats (2022–2024)

• Took over Test captaincy after Virat Kohli stepped down.

• Captaincy Record: 9 Tests as captain
  

  • Wins: 5

  • Losses: 3

  • Draws: 1
    
    

• Led India to the World Test Championship Final (2023).
  
  

Rohit Sharma: The Test Batsman in Style

Rohit was never just about the numbers. His Test batting was an art form—an elegant combination of patience, timing, and sheer confidence. His signature pull shot against fast bowlers and his measured approach as an opener in swinging conditions marked him out as one of the few modern batters who could play Test cricket with grace.

Notable Records and Recognitions

• First Indian to score a double century in ODIs and a double century in Tests.

• Only Indian opener since Virender Sehwag to average over 50 as an opener (minimum 30 innings).

• Among few Indian players to score 100s in all three formats as an opener.