As Rohit Sharma bid farewell to his illustrious Test career, an outpouring of heartfelt tributes filled social media, highlighting the profound impact he made in the game’s longest format. From legends of Indian cricket to international icons and global cricketing bodies, the outpouring of admiration underlined the respect the “Hitman” commands across the cricketing fraternity.
A Journey Remembered
Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket via Instagram, thanking fans for their support and looking back on a memorable journey of over a decade. He made a stunning debut in November 2013 against the West Indies at Eden Gardens, scoring a commanding 177. It was the start of a career that would eventually see him don the whites for India in 67 Tests, amassing 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties.
His highest score of 212 came during a dominant series against South Africa in 2019, showcasing his ability to convert starts into mammoth knocks when settled. That innings was symbolic of the Rohit that matured over the years — patient, methodical, and destructive when the time was right.
From Struggles to Stardom
Rohit’s early Test career was defined by fluctuating form and scarce chances to cement his place in the team. Between 2013 and 2018, he featured in only 27 Tests, struggling to cement his spot amidst fierce competition and question marks over his technique in overseas conditions. But his transformation post-2019, particularly after being promoted to the opener’s slot, was a turning point.
At home, Rohit was a giant.Across 34 home Tests, Rohit Sharma amassed 2,535 runs at a stellar average of 51.73, including 10 centuries — a clear reflection of his dominance in Indian conditions. While his overseas record was comparatively modest, it showed marked progress, highlighted by a standout showing in the 2021-22 Pataudi Trophy in England. There, he scored 368 runs in four Tests at an average of 52.57, including a memorable 127 at The Oval — his lone century in SENA countries, but one that silenced many critics.
A Leader and an Inspiration
Beyond the stats, Rohit Sharma’s true legacy is rooted in his leadership and composed demeanor. As captain, he instilled calm, strategic clarity, and a strong sense of togetherness within the team. Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly lauded his captaincy, writing on X, “Well done on a successful career Rohit @ImRo45 a super captain ..very proud of the achievements.”
Global legends joined in the tributes. AB de Villiers hailed Rohit’s journey, writing, “What a Test career it has been. Take a bow, @ImRo45. Legend.” Fellow Indian stars, past and present, also paid their respects. Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit’s longtime opening partner, shared a heartfelt message: “The whites are off, but a new Test in life awaits. Go conquer it like you always have.”
Cheteshwar Pujara, who often shared vital middle-order partnerships with Rohit, said, “It’s been a pleasure batting alongside you… Wishing you all the best for what lies ahead and looking forward to seeing you shine in ODIs.”
Young talent Tilak Varma offered a fresh perspective: “Legends leave lasting footprints that inspire future generations! Rohit bhai, your Test career has been nothing short of a masterclass.”
The International Cricket Council also joined the tributes, stating, “Rohit Sharma’s memorable chapter in whites comes to an end.”
The End of a Glorious Chapter
At 38, Rohit Sharma walks away from Test cricket not only as one of India’s most elegant stroke-makers but also as a symbol of perseverance and adaptability. From a middle-order hopeful to a dominant opener, and eventually a respected captain, his journey reflects evolution driven by resilience.
As India bids farewell to one of its modern Test greats, Rohit leaves behind not just statistics, but stories — stories of elegance at Eden, grit at The Oval, and dominance at home. His whites may be retired, but his imprint on Indian Test cricket will remain indelible.
