Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 8: Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar paid a heartfelt tribute to Rohit Sharma on Thursday, celebrating the latter’s illustrious Test career following his unexpected retirement from the format. Tendulkar, who had personally handed Rohit his Test cap (No. 280) back in 2013, recalled the emotional milestone and applauded Rohit's contributions as both player and leader.
“I remember presenting you with your Test cap in 2013 at Eden Gardens and then standing with you on the balcony of Wankhede Stadium the other day — your journey has been a remarkable one,” Tendulkar shared on X (formerly Twitter). “You’ve given your all to Indian cricket, both as a batter and a captain. Well done on your Test career and best wishes for the road ahead.”
Rohit’s maiden Test series remains etched in memory — scoring 177 on debut followed by an unbeaten 111 in the second Test against the West Indies, a series that also marked Tendulkar’s farewell from international cricket. Rohit was named Player of the Series.
The announcement of Rohit’s Test retirement, just weeks ahead of India’s five-match series in England beginning June 20 at Headingley, surprised many. He ends his red-ball career with 4,301 runs in 67 Tests at an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His highest score — a majestic 212 — came against South Africa in Ranchi in 2019.
Though recent form saw a slight dip, Rohit’s contributions in key moments — such as the 2020/21 series win in Australia and two World Test Championship Final appearances — established him as a cornerstone of Indian Test cricket.
As captain since 2022, Rohit led India through a critical phase marked by injuries and transition, winning 12 out of 24 Tests at the helm. His leadership brought stability and vision during challenging times for the team.
Having earlier stepped away from T20Is after leading India to a T20 World Cup title, Rohit remains committed to the ODI format. Under his captaincy, India also clinched the ICC Champions Trophy, defeating New Zealand in the final.
As India embarks on a new World Test Championship cycle with the England tour, the focus now shifts to finding a long-term red-ball skipper. Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are among the top contenders expected to take on the mantle.
Rohit Sharma leaves behind a legacy of elegance, resilience, and leadership in whites — one that will inspire generations to come.