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After leading India to a triumphant T20 World Cup victory last year, Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the shortest format. His Test career has been in question since he opted out of the fifth Test against Australia at the SCG in January 2025.
Speculation was rife that Rohit’s international career would conclude with the recently concluded Champions Trophy. However, after India secured the prestigious ICC title by defeating New Zealand in the final last Sunday (March 9), those narratives have shifted. Rohit, who was named Player of the Match for his crucial 76-run knock, may now continue leading India in red-ball cricket.
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Rohit Confirms ODI Commitment
In the post-match press conference, Rohit put an end to speculation about his ODI future, stating unequivocally that he was not stepping away from the format.
“One more thing, I’m not going to retire from this format, just to make sure no more rumours are spread,” he told reporters.
Set to Lead India in England
According to a report in The Indian Express, the 37-year-old is likely to captain India for their upcoming Test tour of England. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selection panel have reportedly backed Rohit to continue leading the team on another major assignment.
“He has shown what he can do. Every stakeholder feels that he is the right candidate to lead the Indian side for the tour of England. Rohit too has expressed his eagerness to keep playing red-ball cricket,” a source told The Indian Express.
Despite struggling in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he failed to cross double digits in three Tests, Rohit remains optimistic about his red-ball future. His last Test half-century came against New Zealand in October 2024.
Speaking to Star Sports after withdrawing from the Sydney Test, he reflected:
“There is no guarantee that runs won’t come five or two months down the line. I have seen a lot of cricket. Life changes every second, every minute, every day. I have confidence in myself that things can change, but at the same time, I have to be realistic as well.”
Uncertain About 2027 World Cup
While Rohit has dismissed retirement talks regarding ODIs, he remains uncertain about participating in the 2027 World Cup.
“Right now, I am taking things as they come. It wouldn’t be fair for me to think too far ahead. At this moment, my focus is on playing well and maintaining the right mindset. I don’t want to draw any lines and say whether I will or won’t play in the 2027 World Cup,” he said in an interaction with JioHotstar.
A Legacy in the Making
The Champions Trophy win marks Rohit Sharma’s second ICC title as captain, following India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, where they defeated South Africa in a thrilling final at Barbados.
As India now prepares for the crucial England Test series, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma, who looks set to continue his leadership journey in red-ball cricket.
