Two of India’s all-time greatest cricketers – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma – announced their retirements from T20I on Saturday following the team’s second T20 World Cup victory. While Kohli announced his retirement minutes after the historic triumph, Indian captain Rohit Sharma announced this at the official post-match press conference. Rohit, who played a crucial role in India’s triumphant campaign, confirmed that he would continue to represent India in ODIs and Tests.
Rohit, whose 41-ball, 92-run knock in the Super 8 clash against Australia would be remembered for years to come, said he was “desperate” for the title.
“This was also my last game. There is no better time to say goodbye. I really wanted this (trophy). It is very difficult to put into words,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference after ending the long journey of over a decade of India. title drought. “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,” he added.
His announcement came on the heels of India’s second T20 World Cup title, a victory that brought immense joy and pride to the country.
His retirement marks the end of an illustrious T20I career, during which he became the format’s leading run-scorer, amassing 4,231 runs in 159 matches. He also holds the record for most centuries in T20 international matches, with five to his name. His T20I journey began with the first T20 World Cup in 2007, where he was a key player in India’s first title win. Now, as captain, he has led India to a second title, further cementing his legacy.
The final match against South Africa was a thrilling one with India defending a target of 176 runs. The Proteas, needing 30 runs off the last 30 deliveries, looked 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, shone in the final, successfully defending 16 runs and sealing a dramatic seven-run victory for India.
This triumph was particularly special for Rohit, who has gone through ups and downs in his cricket career. The victory was a testament to their leadership, resilience and unwavering determination. Reflecting on his journey, Sharma said, “I loved every moment of it. I started my career in India playing in this format. That’s what I wanted, I wanted to win the cup.”
His retirement follows that of his long-time teammate Virat Kohli, who also announced his withdrawal from T20 international matches after the World Cup. Together, Sharma and Kohli have been pillars of Indian cricket, and their contributions have been instrumental in countless victories over the years.
With IANS and PTI inputs
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