Rohit Sharma’s sudden decision to walk away from Test cricket may have surprised fans emotionally, but not so much analytically—at least not to former England captain Michael Atherton. Weighing in on the Indian skipper’s retirement, Atherton shared his thoughts on Sky Sports, suggesting that while Rohit’s announcement was dramatic in its timing, it wasn’t entirely unexpected.
Rohit, who announced his retirement via Instagram on May 7, just days before India’s squad for the England series was to be finalised, closed the curtain on an 11-year-long red-ball journey. However, Atherton questioned whether the decision was purely personal or influenced by whispers from within the BCCI setup.
“There was a report just before Rohit’s announcement that the selectors had decided to move on,” Michael Atherton pointed out. “So, was the decision entirely his? Or did he sense the axe coming? We can’t be sure, but the circumstances do raise eyebrows.”
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He went on to underline the unkind equation all captains dread: poor form combined with a string of losses. India, under Rohit, had suffered five defeats in their last six Test matches—three against New Zealand at home and two in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With Rohit’s form also tapering off, the writing seemed to be on the wall.
Atherton emphasised the unforgiving nature of elite cricket when form deserts you, especially in a talent-rich country like India. “He’s 38 now. And when you’re in a setup with such immense depth, selectors don’t wait around. If you’re not contributing, someone younger is ready.”
Rohit’s final season wasn’t just statistically poor; it was confidence-shaking. In the recent Australian tour, he managed only 31 runs across three Tests and withdrew from the final Test in Sydney, acknowledging his own underperformance. Those close to the team noted he looked emotionally spent.
Reflecting on Rohit’s career, Michael Atherton was honest yet respectful. “He’s been a significant cricketer. Maybe not in the league of the greats in Test cricket, but certainly someone who had his moments. His Test record—just over 40 in average with a dozen centuries—is solid but not exceptional.”
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Atherton did, however, highlight the fascinating duality of Rohit’s Test career—a story of two halves. After years of struggling in the middle order, his shift to opener in 2019 reignited his red-ball journey. That second wind brought memorable knocks, especially at home.
“But his legacy,” Michael Atherton concluded, “will rest more on his ODI career. He’s easily among the greatest ODI openers of all time. Test cricket was a later chapter for him, and though successful, it wasn’t defining.”
As the Indian team prepares for life after both Rohit and potentially Virat Kohli in Tests, one thing is clear: the changing of the guard is now complete, and a fresh narrative awaits.
