The cricketing world came together on Wednesday to pay emotional tributes to Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 38-year-old cricketer, known for his stylish batting and composed captaincy, has brought down the curtain on a remarkable 12-year-long journey in the longest format of the game.
One of the earliest tributes came from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), a body that played an instrumental role in Rohit’s rise through the ranks. The MCA, which proudly watched the Mumbai-born player evolve from a promising youngster into a stalwart of Indian cricket, expressed its admiration through a heartfelt social media post. “Mumbai cha Raja (The King of Mumbai) hangs up his Test whites,” the MCA declared. “From pulling fast bowlers into the stands to leading with calm authority — Rohit Sharma’s Test journey was worth every watch, every roar, every rise.”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) followed closely with a touching message, describing Rohit’s departure as the “end of an era in whites.” In its tribute, the board confirmed that while he will no longer feature in Tests, he will continue to lead the Indian side in One Day Internationals. “Thank you, Captain. We are proud of you, Hitman,” the BCCI posted, referring to Rohit by his well-known nickname.
Within hours, tributes started pouring in from current and former cricketers who shared their experiences and appreciation for Rohit’s contributions to Indian cricket. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant emphasized the emotional and lasting influence Rohit has had on the team. “Your presence and impact will echo in that dressing room forever. Much love, @rohitsharma45 bhai,” Pant wrote on Instagram, reflecting the close bond between the players.
Young Test cricketer Dhruv Jurel, who earned his Test cap during the 2024 series against England under Rohit’s leadership, expressed his gratitude and respect. “Always my first skipper, Happy Retirement Rohit Bhaiya,” Jurel shared, underlining the role Rohit played in mentoring younger players stepping into the challenging format.
Rohit wraps up his Test career with impressive numbers: 4,301 runs from 67 matches at an average of 40.57. His record includes 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, cementing his place as a dependable top-order batter. After Virat Kohli stepped down in 2022, Rohit took over the reins as Test captain and led India in 24 matches, securing 12 wins and enduring 9 losses. One of his key assignments as skipper included leading the side in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia.
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan reminisced about Rohit’s exceptional performance during the 2021 Test series in England, widely considered a turning point in his red-ball career. “Congratulations @ImRo45 on your Test career. The 2021 series in England will be remembered for your heroics. Go well in your next phase,” Pathan said, pointing to the consistency and flair Rohit displayed on foreign soil.
Ex-wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel echoed the general sentiment of a generation witnessing the exit of a cricketing icon. He termed the moment the “end of an era,” praising Rohit for displaying “grit, grace, and leadership” in a format that tests the very core of a cricketer’s abilities. Patel’s words underscored how Rohit managed to blend elegance with effectiveness in the most traditional form of the game.
Adding his voice to the chorus of admiration, spinner Amit Mishra described Rohit’s career as “legendary,” and acknowledged the pride he brought to the country through his performances. “Congratulations on a legendary Test career, @ImRo45. You’ve made India proud. All the best for your ODI journey,” Mishra posted, highlighting how Rohit’s journey continues in other formats.
Rohit’s Indian Premier League franchise, the Mumbai Indians, also joined in to pay tribute to their long-serving captain. Rohit has been one of the most successful leaders in IPL history and has become synonymous with the Mumbai-based team. Recognizing his contributions in Tests, the franchise wrote, “Cap 280, Jersey 45, Bowing out from Test cricket. It was a privilege watching you in India whites, Ro!” The statement reflected the pride and affection the team and fans have long held for him.
Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement marks the conclusion of a chapter that saw him evolve into one of the finest players in Indian cricket. His approach at the crease—marked by elegant stroke play, timing, and effortless six-hitting—won him admiration from fans and experts alike. Yet it was not just his batting but also his temperament and calm leadership that stood out, especially in pressure situations.
As he moves away from the Test format, the respect and love shown by his peers, cricketing bodies, and fans across the globe demonstrate the profound impact he has had on the sport. He departs with his legacy firmly intact—a cricketer who brought poise, passion, and leadership to a demanding format, while also nurturing the next generation of Indian cricket.
Rohit Sharma’s journey in Tests may be over, but the echoes of his cover drives, patient centuries, and unflinching decisions as captain will continue to inspire young cricketers for years to come. His contribution has not only been in runs and wins, but in the way he carried the spirit of Indian cricket forward—quietly, gracefully, and with an unwavering commitment to the game.