Former Indian cricket coach Ravi Shastri has recently shared his thoughts on the possibility of Rohit Sharma retiring from Test cricket, suggesting that he would not be surprised if the star batsman decides to step down from the longest format of the game. Shastri’s comments came amid growing speculation about Sharma’s future, particularly after his exclusion from the Indian squad for the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Shastri, who worked closely with Sharma during his tenure as India’s head coach, acknowledged the challenges the opener has faced in recent years, particularly in Test cricket. Sharma, who has been a mainstay in India’s Test lineup, has struggled with form, managing only one half-century in his last 15 Test innings. Given the demands of playing all formats and his age, Shastri believes that it is natural for a player like Sharma, who has achieved so much in his career, to consider retirement when the time feels right.
“I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Rohit Sharma decides to retire from Test cricket,” Shastri said. “He’s not getting any younger, and players need to make these decisions for themselves when they feel they have done enough.” Shastri added that Sharma’s longevity in international cricket has been remarkable, and the pressure of continuously performing in all three formats may eventually take a toll on any player.
Shastri also pointed to the influx of younger players in the Indian setup, including Shubman Gill, who has been in excellent form and is eagerly waiting for more opportunities in Test cricket. “There are younger players waiting for their chance, like Shubman Gill, who has been performing exceptionally well in limited-overs cricket,” Shastri remarked. This sentiment further suggested that the Indian team is prepared to evolve, with or without Sharma, and that the younger generation is ready to take the mantle in Test cricket.