India captain Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect, shortly after reports emerged that he was being removed as India’s Test captain ahead of the upcoming tour of England.
The 38-year-old, who ends his Test career with 4,301 runs in 67 matches—including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries at an average of 40.57—was widely regarded as one of India’s most dependable batters in the second half of his career. He led India to the World Test Championship final against Australia and captained the side during a few tough series against New Zealand and Australia.
Reports of Sacking by BCCI Selection Committee
According to The Indian Express, the BCCI’s senior selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has decided to relieve Rohit of Test captaincy due to his poor red-ball form. Rohit, however, is expected to continue as India’s ODI captain and may travel to England as a specialist batter. The decision was reportedly communicated to BCCI officials, who have endorsed the move.
The selectors have reportedly grown increasingly concerned with Rohit’s form in the longest format, particularly during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy where he averaged just 6.20 across five innings. His performance against New Zealand was also underwhelming, averaging just 15.16 across three home Tests. These concerns were compounded by his inconsistency in the batting order and eventual self-exclusion from the Sydney Test.
Leadership Uncertainty and Roadmap Ahead
Sources say the selectors believe it is time to groom a new leader for the next Test cycle. Despite Rohit expressing his desire to lead India in England during a recent podcast with Michael Clarke, the committee is inclined toward long-term planning.
“The selectors’ thought process is clear. They want a new leader for the England tour and Rohit doesn’t fit in as a captain, especially considering his red-ball form. They want to groom a young leader for the next Test cycle,” a source told The Indian Express.
Contenders for India’s Next Test Captain
The frontrunner for the role is Jasprit Bumrah, currently the vice-captain. However, concerns over his fitness and workload may prevent the selectors from naming him as the full-time skipper.
Other possible candidates include Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant. Among them, only KL Rahul has previously captained India in a Test match. Pant, if fully fit, is also viewed as a strong candidate due to his aggressive game and popularity within the team setup.
