Rohit Sharma dropped a bombshell and announced his retirement from Test cricket on Wednesday. Rohit had a disastrous run in Tests in the last few months and had horrible outings in the home series against New Zealand and the following tour to Australia. He even dropped himself from the playing XI for the fifth Test in Sydney. Speculations were rife that Rohit would announce retirement after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but the then Indian captain stayed tight-lipped.
Having led India to a win in the ICC Champions Trophy and a return to form in the IPL boosted hopes of Rohit Sharma leading India in England, as stated by multiple media reports as well, however, he left the fans by surprise by announcing a sudden decision.
According to a report in PTI, Rohit's decision to retire wasn't an out-of-the-blue call, but he made up his mind after leading India to the Champions Trophy win. The BCCI selectors met in Mumbai recently to discuss the blueprint for the India squad for the England tour, and Rohit quickly made it clear that he wants to bow out on his terms.
"The retirement from Test cricket was on Rohit's mind since India won the Champions Trophy. A new WTC (World Test Championship) cycle was starting, and hence he thought this was the best time," a source close to the Indian skipper told the news agency.
"If Rohit had decided that he would call it quits in Tests, where does the question of dropping him come?, a former BCCI office-bearer, who has watched Rohit closely over the years, thought aloud.

Rohit Sharma To Lead India In ODI World Cup 2027?

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma confirmed that he will continue to play ODI cricket for India. Rohit suffered a heartbreak after India lost the ODI World Cup final to Australia, and he is keen on leading India to another 50-over title. However, it will be interesting to see if the BCCI is willing to have Rohit Sharma as captain for the ODODISS. The board has usually preferred one captain for the ODI and Test formats. "Rohit is determined to play the 2027 ODI World Cup, and he will do everything in his power to remain fit and play the mega-event," the source said.
Rohit will return to action in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh in August.