In a heartfelt announcement that stirred emotions across the cricketing world, Rohit Sharma has officially retired from Test cricket.

The 38-year-old Indian skipper, known for his class, composure, and cricketing intellect, revealed his decision through an Instagram post on Wednesday. While stepping away from the red-ball format, Rohit affirmed he will continue to don the Indian jersey in one-day internationals (ODIs), a format where he has left an indelible mark.

“It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites,” Rohit wrote. “Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”

With this, India says goodbye to one of its most stylish and dependable Test batsmen of the modern era. Rohit’s journey in Test cricket wasn’t conventional. Often viewed as a white-ball specialist in his early years, it took time before he cemented his place in the Test squad. But when he did, especially after taking up the opening role, he silenced critics with solid performances at home and abroad.

Rohit finishes his Test career with 4,301 runs from 67 matches, an average of 40.57, and 12 centuries to his name. While not the most prolific by numbers, his contributions were timely and often came under pressure. His calm leadership and ability to build innings from the top made him a vital cog in India’s red-ball aspirations, especially during the transition years.

Yet, the past year wasn’t easy for the veteran. His form in Tests dipped significantly, with only one century in his last 19 innings. It culminated in a rare moment of self-assessment when Rohit decided to exclude himself from the playing XI during the Sydney Test earlier this year—a move that spoke volumes about his integrity and leadership.

This isn’t the first format Rohit has moved on from. After guiding India to a memorable ICC T20 World Cup victory in the West Indies last year—their second title in that format—he stepped down from T20 internationals as well. With Tests now behind him, his focus is clearly on ODIs, where he has redefined what it means to be a modern-day opening batter.

In ODIs, Rohit’s legacy is unmatched. He is the only player to have scored three double centuries in men’s ODIs, including an astonishing 264 against Sri Lanka, which still stands as the highest individual score in the format. Beyond numbers, his elegant strokeplay and ability to control the tempo of the game have made him a fan favourite around the world.

The announcement of his retirement also sparks discussions about India’s next Test captain. Jasprit Bumrah, who has served as vice-captain and led the team in Rohit's absence during the Australian tour, is one name in the mix. However, considering the demanding physical toll on fast bowlers, it remains to be seen whether the BCCI will hand over the reins to a pacer on a full-time basis.

India’s upcoming Test challenge—a five-match series against England starting June 20 in Leeds—marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team. As one of India’s finest batsmen steps away from the format, there will be both a void to fill and inspiration to draw from his journey.

Rohit Sharma’s story in Test cricket is a testament to perseverance. He wasn’t always the first name on the team sheet. He wasn’t the overnight success some expected him to be in whites. But when he found his rhythm, he brought a unique blend of aggression and grace to the crease. He showed that patience and adaptability can redefine a career—even in your thirties.

As fans, we now shift our gaze to what lies ahead in his ODI journey, where the hope of another World Cup victory under his leadership still burns bright. But for now, we pause to celebrate a remarkable career in Test cricket—one marked by late bloom, elegant cover drives, and the quiet resilience of a true sportsman.

Thank you, Rohit Sharma. Indian Test cricket is richer because of you.