(Image source from: x.com/BCCI)

Rohit Sharma has made the decision to retire from Test cricket effective immediately. The prominent batsman shared this news through his Instagram story on Wednesday, emphasizing that he will focus solely on playing One Day Internationals from now on. After the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup, Rohit had already stepped away from the T20 format.

This announcement puts to rest any uncertainties regarding his future in Test cricket, particularly following a disappointing performance during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. In his Instagram message, Rohit stated, “Hello everyone, I would like to announce my retirement from Test cricket. It has been an incredible honor to represent my country in this format. I am grateful for all the love and support you have shown me over the years. I will continue to play for India in the ODI format.”

At 38 years old, Rohit was India's most accomplished Test batsman during the latter part of his career, amassing 4,301 runs in 67 Tests, which includes 12 centuries and 18 fifties, with an average of 40.57. He led India to the World Test Championship final against Australia and played a crucial role in recent series, despite some challenges in the matches against New Zealand at home and the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia.

As India prepares for the upcoming five-Test series in England, a new captain will need to be appointed, with potential candidates including Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant. Sources indicate that Shubman Gill is currently the leading contender to take over the captaincy. “Shubman Gill is being discussed as a potential captain. Further changes are expected as this marks the beginning of the WTC cycle. The selectors are unlikely to look back; rather, they will focus on the future,” the sources shared.