Rohit Sharma bids farewell to Test cricket: Ganguly hails ‘Hitman’ for stellar career

Kolkata, May 8: Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from Test cricket, drawing the curtain on a remarkable journey in the game's longest format. The 38-year-old, fondly known as the ‘Hitman’, took to Instagram on Wednesday to thank fans and reflect on a decade-long Test career that saw its share of highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments.

Rohit made his Test debut in November 2013 against the West Indies at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, scoring a dazzling 177. Over the course of 67 Test matches, he amassed 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 fifties. His highest Test score, a commanding 212, came in 2019 during a home series against South Africa.

Former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly praised Sharma’s contributions and leadership. “He is a great player for India, but someone has to leave the game. My best wishes to him. He had a good career. He will still play One Day Internationals for India and in the IPL. When I was part of BCCI, we believed he would be a great captain—and he proved us right. Under his leadership, India won the World Cup, Champions Trophy, and achieved great success in Test cricket,” Ganguly told ANI.

While Rohit dazzled at home—scoring 2,535 runs in 34 Tests at an average of 51.73—his overseas record remained a point of debate. In 31 Tests abroad, he managed 1,644 runs at an average of 31.01, including only two centuries. Nevertheless, his standout performance in the 2021-22 Pataudi Trophy in England, where he scored 368 runs at an average of 52.57, cemented his stature as a reliable opener in challenging conditions.

Rohit leaves Test cricket as India’s 16th-highest run-getter, remembered for his elegant strokeplay, calm demeanor, and tactical acumen as captain. Though the whites are now behind him, Indian cricket fans can still look forward to watching the Hitman shine in limited-overs formats and the Indian Premier League.