Rohit Sharma Retires from T20Is After Leading India to 2024 World Cup Victory – Continues in Tests and ODIs
Rohit Sharma Retirement from T20Is
Personal Information
- Full Name: Rohit Gurunath Sharma
- Born: 30 April 1987 (age 37), Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
- Nickname: Hitman, Ro, Shana
- Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
- Batting Style: Right-handed
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
- Role: Top-order batter
Legendary Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from T20 international cricket after leading India to a resounding victory in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. In a match that will be remembered for years, India defeated South Africa by seven runs, with Sharma playing a crucial role in securing the trophy. The win is India’s second T20 World Cup title, Sharma is the only Indian player to win two T20 World Cups, and he was also part of the 2007 victory.
Rohit Sharma’s decision to retire from T20Is comes at the peak of his career. With 159 T20I matches under his belt, Sharma scored an impressive 4,231 runs at a strike rate of 140.89 and an average of 32.05. His tenure as captain has been equally impressive, leading India to 62 matches and 49 wins, the most in T20Is by any Indian captain. Under his leadership, India has seen a revival in T20 cricket, culminating in victory in the 2024 World Cup.
Sharma’s leadership and strategic acumen were on full display in the final against South Africa. Batting first, India set a tough target of 172 runs. Sharma’s contribution was crucial, scoring 45 off 31 balls. The Indian innings were bolstered by valuable contributions from other key players, but it was Sharma’s strategic field placement and brilliant bowling changes that really turned the tide in India’s favour. South Africa, despite a valiant effort, fell by seven runs, giving India the much-coveted trophy.
International Information
- National Side: India (2007–present)
- Test Debut (Cap 280): 6 November 2013 v West Indies
- Last Test: 9 March 2024 v England
- ODI Debut (Cap 168): 23 June 2007 v Ireland
- Last ODI: 19 November 2023 v Australia
- ODI Shirt No.: 45 (formerly 77)
- T20I Debut (Cap 17): 19 September 2007 v England
- Last T20I: 29 June 2024 v South Africa
- T20I Shirt No.: 45 (formerly 77)
Sharma’s retirement was announced shortly after the match, adding an emotional note to the celebratory atmosphere. “It was also my last match. There was no better time to say goodbye. I wanted it badly. It’s very difficult to put into words,” Sharma expressed during the post-match press conference. His words reflect the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering desire to bring glory to Indian cricket. “It was what I wanted and it happened. I was desperate for it in my life. Glad we crossed the line this time,” he added, underscoring the significance of the victory.
Sharma’s T20I career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his impeccable timing, elegance and ability to hit sixes, he has set several records in the format. He is the first player to score five centuries in T20Is and holds the record for most runs in T20 Internationals. His leadership skills have also been widely recognised, making him one of the most successful captains in the history of T20 cricket. Sharma’s retirement leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his contribution to Indian cricket will always be remembered.
Virat Kohli’s retirement from T20Is, which was announced shortly before Sharma’s, marked the end of an era for Indian cricket. Together, Sharma and Kohli have been instrumental in shaping the modern era of Indian cricket, both bringing their own unique style and strength to the team. Kohli paid tribute to Sharma, highlighting their friendship and mutual respect. “Rohit has been an exceptional leader and player. His dedication and passion for the game is unparalleled. It’s an honour to play alongside him,” Kohli said.
Apart from his on-field achievements, Rohit Sharma has been a prominent figure off the field as well. He has been active in animal welfare campaigns and is the official rhino ambassador of WWF-India. Her efforts with PETA to raise awareness about the plight of homeless animals are commendable. Sharma’s commitment to social causes has earned him respect and admiration from fans and colleagues alike.
Sharma’s journey to cricket stardom began in the suburbs of Mumbai. Born on 30 April 1987 in Bansod, Nagpur, Maharashtra, he was brought up by his grandparents and uncle due to his father’s modest income. His cricketing talent was evident from an early age and with the support of his uncle, he joined a cricket camp in 1999. His coach Dinesh Lad recognized Sharma’s potential and helped him get a scholarship to Swami Vivekananda International School, where he honed his skills. . Starting as an off-spinner who could bat, Sharma’s batting ability soon became apparent, and he soon moved up the ranks to become an opening batsman.
Rohit Sharma’s personal life is as rich as his professional career. He married his long-time girlfriend Ritika Sajde on 13 December 2015 and the couple has a daughter named Sameera, born on 30 December 2018. Sharma practices the meditation technique Sahaj Marg and follows an ascetic diet, reflecting his disciplined lifestyle.
Commercially, Sharma has been the face of several brands, including CEAT, Hublot, Maggi, Fair and Lovely, Lay’s, and Nissan. His endorsement has made him one of India’s most marketable players, further cementing his status as a cricket icon.
Sharma’s cricketing record is a testament to his extraordinary talent and consistency. He held the world record for the highest individual score in a One Day International (ODI) match with 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014. He is also the only player to score three double centuries in ODIs. In the 2019 Cricket World Cup, Sharma scored five centuries, the most by any player in a single World Cup, earning him the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award.
Sharma’s contribution to Indian cricket goes beyond individual records. Under his captaincy, India won the 2018 and 2023 Asia Cup and the 2018 Nidahas Trophy. His leadership has been instrumental in India’s success in multinational tournaments, demonstrating his ability to motivate and lead the team to victory.
As Rohit Sharma moves away from T20Is, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come. His achievements in the shortest format of the game, and his consistent presence in Tests and ODIs ensure that he will remain a key figure in Indian cricket. The 2024 T20 World Cup triumph is a fitting tribute to his illustrious career, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Indian cricket.
After all, Rohit Sharma’s retirement from T20Is after leading India to a historic victory in the World Cup is a defining moment in cricket history. His contributions on and off the field have left an indelible mark on the game. As he continues to play in Tests and ODIs, fans look forward to more memorable performances from one of the greatest cricketers of all time. Sharma’s journey, marked by determination, skill and passion, serves as an inspiration to all aspiring cricketers and sports fans around the world.
