Ravi Shastri says he won't be surprised if Rohit retires after Sydney Test

Ravi Shastri says he won’t be surprised if Rohit retires after Sydney Test

Article Update On:

January 2 2025

Published On:

January 2 2025

Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri has sparked discussions by hinting at a possible retirement announcement for Rohit Sharma. Speaking on ‘The ICC Review’, Shastri said he would not be surprised if Rohit decided to end his Test career after the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney.

“He will accept a decision about his career, but I won’t be surprised at all if Sharma retires,” Shastri said. “He’s not getting any younger. There are talented players like Shubman Gill waiting in the wings, averaging over 40 in 2024 and still sitting on the bench. One wonders what’s next for Indian cricket.”

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A fitting ending or just speculation?

Rohit Sharma’s absence in the first and potentially fifth Test of the series has fueled speculation about his future. Shastri believes that if Rohit decides to retire, he should do so with a memorable performance. “If Sharma plays, he should come out in a blaze of glory,” he added.

India’s qualification for the World Test Championship (WTC) final could also influence Rohit’s decision. “If India qualifies for the WTC finals, the scenario will be completely different,” Shastri said. “But if not, this might be the right time for him to step aside.”

Shubman Gill and three other Gujarat Titans players called up by Gujarat CID at Rs. 450 Crore Fund Scam

The final hopes of the series and the WTC are at stake

Currently, India trails in the Border Gavaskar Trophy by 1-2. The final test in Sydney is a decisive situation for them. A win here would keep their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final alive. However, if they lose, Australia will qualify for the final.

There are currently reports that Rohit Sharma has opted to rest for the final Test in Sydney. Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the Indian team in his absence. However, if Rohit decides to retire, the BCCI would be forced to look for a permanent Test captain for the Indian team.