Two of India’s greatest ever cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, announced their retirements from T20 internationals on Saturday, following India’s second T20 World Cup victory. Kohli revealed his decision to retire moments after the historic win, while India captain Rohit Sharma made his announcement during the official post-match press conference. Despite stepping away from T20Is, Rohit confirmed he would continue to play for India in ODIs and Tests.
Rohit, whose remarkable 41-ball 92-run innings against Australia in the Super 8s will be remembered for years, expressed his longing for the title. “This was my last game as well. No better time to say goodbye. I wanted this (trophy) badly. It’s very hard to put in words,” Rohit said during the press conference. “This is what I wanted, and it happened. I was very desperate for this in my life. Happy that we crossed the line this time.”
His retirement announcement came after India clinched their second T20 World Cup title, a victory that filled the nation with immense joy and pride.
Rohit’s retirement marks the end of a stellar T20I career, during which he became the format’s highest scorer with 4,231 runs in 159 matches. He also holds the record for the most centuries in T20 internationals, with five to his name. His T20I journey began with the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, where he played a key role in India’s first title win. As captain, he now leaves after leading India to their second title, further cementing his legacy.
The final match against South Africa was a nail-biter, with India defending a target of 176 runs. The Proteas needed 30 runs from the last 30 deliveries and seemed to have the upper hand. However, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Arshdeep Singh, held their nerve at crucial moments. Pandya, in particular, excelled in the final over, successfully defending 16 runs and sealing a dramatic seven-run victory for India.
This triumph was especially meaningful for Rohit, who has experienced both highs and lows throughout his cricketing career. The win was a testament to his leadership, resilience, and unwavering determination. Reflecting on his journey, Sharma said, “I’ve loved every moment of this. I started my India career playing this format. This is what I wanted; I wanted to win the cup.”
Rohit’s retirement follows that of his long-time teammate, Virat Kohli, who also announced his departure from T20 internationals after the World Cup. Together, Sharma and Kohli have been pillars of Indian cricket, their contributions instrumental in numerous victories over the years.
