Farewell to the global giants: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Test retirement marks the end of an era

From the editor’s desk

Indian cricket stands at a crossroads. The retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket is not merely the departure of two accomplished players; it’s the curtain call on a chapter that defined an era of global dominance. These two cricketers were not just performers—they were architects of India's rise as a formidable Test side, capable of winning across continents and competing fearlessly against the best in the world. From the spinning pitches of India to the seaming conditions of England and the bouncy tracks of Australia, Rohit and Kohli have left their mark on almost every cricketing arena. Their legacy goes far beyond runs and records. It lies in the belief they instilled in an entire generation: that Indian cricket could command respect anywhere in the world. Virat Kohli’s entry into the Test arena in 2011 came at a time when India was seeking fresh leadership and drive. He quickly transformed from a promising batsman into one of the most dominant Test players of the modern era. Known for his hunger, discipline, and intensity, Kohli’s batting prowess made him a nightmare for bowlers across conditions. His performances abroad truly define his greatness. Kohli’s 141 at Adelaide in 2014, where he almost single-handedly dragged India towards an impossible target, was a signal of things to come. His centuries in England in 2018— especially against the swinging Dukes ball—put to rest all doubts about his ability in testing overseas conditions. In Australia, he led from the front not only with the bat but also with attitude, ensuring India did not take a step back in any confrontation. What made Kohli different was his unrelenting attitude. He believed in mental domination. His confrontational style wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it injected a new kind of selfconfidence into the team. Under his leadership, India never looked like tourists abroad; they played like contenders. He was instrumental in building one of the fittest, most aggressive Test teams India has ever produced.

Unlike Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s Test journey was delayed and at times frustrating. For years, he was considered a white-ball specialist. However, when opportunity finally came—especially as a Test opener starting in 2019—he grabbed it with both hands. The transformation was dramatic and inspiring.

Rohit’s technique, patience, and classical style made him an elegant foil to Kohli’s fire. His hundred at The Oval in 2021 remains one of India’s most cherished overseas knocks in recent memory. Battling overcast skies, disciplined bowling, and the pressure of opening in England, Rohit showcased maturity, control, and resolve—hallmarks of a seasoned Test cricketer.

In Australia, too, Rohit’s calmness at the top of the order helped lay solid foundations. Though he may not have as many centuries abroad as Kohli, his impact was immense. His ability to adapt, anchor innings, and play long periods showcased that Indian batsmen could master even the toughest conditions if given time and clarity of role.

As captain, Rohit brought a different vibe—calm, calculated, and composed. While Kohli led with his heart, Rohit brought balance and stability. He trusted his players, rotated his bowlers smartly, and made brave, tactical decisions.

Together, Rohit and Kohli made India a fearsome Test side abroad—a reputation long overdue. From the historic series win in Australia in 2018-19 (under Kohli’s captaincy before his departure on paternity leave) to dominating England at Lord’s and The Oval, these two were central to India’s emergence as a world Test power.

In South Africa, while series wins eluded India, individual brilliance from both batsmen shone through. Kohli’s resilience at Centurion and Rohit’s application in challenging conditions were proof that Indian batsmen had evolved. They no longer crumbled when the ball moved or bounced—they adapted, survived, and counter-attacked.

In New Zealand, although results weren’t always favourable, the experience of playing in swinging conditions added to their growth. Kohli and Rohit ensured that Indian batsmen learned how to counteract green-tops with patience and planning.

At home, their dominance was near-absolute. Kohli’s double centuries, Rohit’s marathon innings, and their understanding of spin conditions made India almost unbeatable in the subcontinent. Their consistency ensured that India maintained its top Test ranking for several years.

While their batting heroics drew headlines, their leadership transformed Indian cricket. Kohli revolutionised fitness standards. He brought in Yo-Yo tests, intense training regimens, and demanded peak performance. This created a culture of excellence that permeated the squad.

Rohit, on the other hand, brought a sense of calm leadership. His approach to captaincy was rooted in trust and empowerment. He gave bowlers the freedom to express, backed out-of-form players, and made strategic decisions that often turned matches around.

Both players handled pressure with grace. Whether it was criticism from fans or scrutiny from media, they never shied away from responsibility. They took defeats on the chin and led from the front during victories. Their departure leaves more than just a statistical void. It leaves a vacuum in mindset, experience, and inspiration. India loses two players who not only scored runs but also guided others, absorbed pressure, and set the tone in dressing rooms.

Their replacements—talented as they may be—will need time to grow into those shoes. Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad represent the future, but the transition will be challenging. Test cricket is a format that rewards patience and punishes impulsiveness. Kohli and Rohit mastered this balance. The next generation must do the same. Beyond Indian borders, the international cricket community mourns this retirement. In an age when Test cricket is constantly battling for relevance against the spectacle of T20s, Kohli and Rohit were torchbearers of the red-ball game. Kohli, in particular, often spoke about Test cricket being the “purest form of the game.” His passion was evident every time he took the field in white.

Their absence will impact rivalries. India vs Australia, India vs England, India vs South Africa—these will feel different without Kohli’s intensity and Rohit’s artistry. Broadcasters, fans, and pundits will miss the spectacle these two provided. When the story of modern Indian cricket is written, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will have their own towering chapters. They inspired millions—not just with their talent but with their journeys. Kohli, the aggressive youth who became a disciplined icon. Rohit, the elegant stylist who proved patience was as valuable as flair.

They taught Indian cricket how to win with courage, lead with character, and lose with dignity. Their contributions go beyond runs and centuries—they redefined what it meant to be an Indian Test cricketer on the global stage.

As they step away from the redball format, they leave behind more than statistics—they leave behind a dream that they helped make real: India, as a global Test powerhouse.