Rohit Sharma’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket has indeed stirred significant reactions within the BCCI and the broader cricketing community. At 38, Sharma’s decision comes on the heels of a challenging period marked by a decline in form and India’s recent Test series defeats. Notably, India lost five of their last six Tests under his captaincy, including a 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand and a 3-1 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
Sharma’s recent performances had come under scrutiny, with an average of just 10.93 over the past year. This led selectors to consider new leadership for the upcoming five-Test series in England, marking the start of the new World Test Championship cycle. a private conversation between Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. In the footage, Sharma expressed concerns over new BCCI guidelines, particularly regarding family travel restrictions on long tours. He mentioned, “Ab mere ko baithna padega secretary ke saath. Family, wamily ka discuss karne ke liye, sab mere ko bol rahe hai yaar,” highlighting the players’ apprehensions about the new policies.
While this conversation occurred months before his retirement announcement, it underscores the ongoing discussions and potential disagreements between senior players and the BCCI regarding team policies and player welfare. The BCCI acknowledged Sharma’s contributions, calling it the end of an era.
As India prepares for the upcoming Test series in England, the focus now shifts to identifying Sharma’s successor. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is a potential candidate, though concerns about managing a fast bowler’s workload persist. Shubman Gill, at 25, is also being considered, bringing leadership experience from the IPL but limited success in England.
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Sharma will continue to represent India in One-Day Internationals, where he has excelled, holding the record for the highest individual score (264) and being the only player with three double centuries.
