Ajinkya Rahane Stunned by Rohit Sharma’s Sudden Test Retirement: ‘I’m Shocked’
In a stunning turn of events that has sent ripples through the cricketing world, Indian batting maestro Rohit Sharma announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket, leaving fans and teammates alike in disbelief. Among those caught off guard was his long-time Mumbai teammate and close friend, Ajinkya Rahane, who admitted to being utterly shocked by the news.
During a post-match press conference following Kolkata Knight Riders’ heartbreaking two-wicket loss to Chennai Super Kings in a must-win IPL clash at the iconic Eden Gardens on Wednesday, Rahane revealed he was unaware of Rohit’s decision until that moment. ‘Oh, is it? I’m actually shocked. I didn’t know that he retired from the Test format. I just want to wish him the very best,’ said the KKR skipper, visibly taken aback.
Rahane, 36, who has shared the dressing room with Rohit since their early days in Mumbai domestic cricket, emphasized their deep bond and spoke highly of Rohit’s stellar Test career. ‘I thought he has done fantastically well in the Test format. He started at number 5 or 6 and later transformed into a phenomenal opener. The way he adapted to that role was amazing to watch,’ Rahane noted, highlighting Rohit’s aggressive approach and leadership in inspiring others to ‘play with freedom.’
Rohit, 38, made his Test debut in 2013 and enjoyed a remarkable resurgence after transitioning to an opener in 2019, amassing 3,137 runs in 59 Tests at an average of 45.75, including 8 centuries. Sources suggest that Rohit had been contemplating this decision since India’s triumphant Champions Trophy campaign earlier in March this year. Having already retired from T20 Internationals after captaining India to a World Cup title in 2023, Rohit will now focus exclusively on leading the national side in ODIs.
Rahane, a seasoned Test specialist with 4,931 runs in 85 Tests, also reflected on his own journey. Despite being out of India’s red-ball setup for over two years, the veteran batter remains hopeful of a national comeback. ‘I’ll connect with Rohit soon and discuss this. Whatever his future plans are, I know he’ll continue to inspire,’ Rahane added with optimism.
As the cricketing fraternity comes to terms with Rohit Sharma’s unexpected exit from Test cricket, his legacy as a fearless batter and a visionary leader will undoubtedly endure. For Rahane and countless fans, this marks the end of an era, but also a moment to celebrate a career defined by grit, adaptability, and brilliance.