Sydney [Australia], January 2: Ahead of the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, former India head coach Ravi Shastri expressed that he wouldn’t be surprised if Rohit Sharma chose to retire from Test cricket after the series concludes.
In a candid conversation on The ICC Review with Sanjana Ganesan, Shastri highlighted that the Indian captain might decide to retire, especially considering his recent lean form in the series. “If I were near Rohit Sharma, I would tell him to go out there and play without any inhibitions,” Shastri said. “Take the attack to the opposition, play freely, and see what happens. Right now, he’s looking a bit stifled in his approach.”
Speculation surrounding Sharma’s future in the longest format has been growing, especially after his modest performances, having scored just 31 runs at an average of 6.2 in the ongoing series. Shastri pointed out that Sharma’s career may be nearing its end, particularly with the rise of younger players like Shubman Gill, who is in strong form but has been warming the bench.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he retires, he’s not getting younger,” Shastri commented. “There are young players like Shubman Gill, averaging over 40 in 2024 and not even playing, which makes you wonder what’s going on. But ultimately, it’s his decision.”
Shastri also touched upon the importance of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final qualification. “If India qualifies for the WTC Final, that could change things,” he said. “Otherwise, this could be the right time for him to walk away on his own terms, but if he plays, he should go out with a blaze of glory.”
The fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on Friday, with Australia leading the series 2-1. India must win this match to keep their slim chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship Final alive. Additionally, India would need Australia to lose their upcoming matches in Sri Lanka to secure a spot in the final at Lord’s in June.