Chief selector Ajit Agarkar paid rich tribute to Rohit Sharma following his recent retirement from Test cricket, acknowledging the leadership, consistency, and legacy the veteran opener leaves behind. With Rohit and Virat Kohli both stepping away from the format within weeks of each other, Agarkar admitted that filling their shoes would be no easy task as India begin a new World Test Championship cycle.

“Needless to say, even Rohit, he's been a leader over the last couple of years since he started leading the Test matches. It's a new cycle. So, it's an opportunity to build something for us as well. But there's no doubt. We've got to show them the respect that they deserve instead of speculating too many things,” Agarkar said during the squad announcement for the England series.

Rohit, who played 67 Tests for India and captained the side through multiple red-ball series, announced his retirement earlier this month. While the timing surprised many, Agarkar said the decision had to be respected, especially considering Rohit's stature and contributions over the years.

“They've earned that respect, both of them. As all great players are, the one thing they are is they are true to themselves. It's sometimes a personal call with players and you've got to respect that.”

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Agarkar confirmed that he had personal conversations with both Rohit and Kohli before their final call and lauded their professionalism and honesty. 

“These two guys are big players for us in Test cricket and those are going to be big holes to fill.”

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With three senior players—Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin—retiring from the format, Agarkar described the transition as challenging but hopeful. He stressed that it also opens the door for India’s next generation to step up and write their own stories.

“When guys like that retire, there's always going to be big holes to fill. I mean, R. Ashwin retired a few months back as well. So, those three guys are stalwarts of our cricket. It's always difficult. One way of looking at it is, it's an opportunity for someone else. They've left a legacy behind,” he said.

Agarkar particularly pointed out Rohit Sharma’s leadership in recent years and how his absence will impact the team’s Test core, especially in overseas conditions like England.

“But there's no doubt we'll miss them. I mean all three of them. And Shami. He's been incredible. So, four guys like that not being part of the squad is going to make it a little bit tougher. But it's an opportunity for other guys.”

India begin their five-match Test series against England on June 20, with leading the new-look squad into a fresh WTC cycle. As Agarkar noted, while the transition won’t be easy, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter.