Did Rohit Sharma Retire from Test Cricket Due to Harsh Commentary and Criticism?

Rohit Sharma proved he had what it takes when he was promoted to open the innings in Tests, marking the beginning of Rohit Sharma 2.0. He made the position his own with solid performances at home and abroad. However, on 7th May 2025, Rohit announced his retirement from Test cricket. The decision came as a surprise to many as he left Test Cricket after scoring 4301 runs in the 67 test matches for the Indian team at an average of 40.57. In a recent interview, Rohit opened up about the reasons behind his retirement and what he shared may shock fans.

Was Rohit Sharma Targeted by Agenda-Driven Criticism?

What can be termed as one of the best careers in modern-day cricket has come to an emotional pause, as Rohit Sharma bid farewell to Test cricket on May 7, 2025. But along with his retirement came a hard-hitting statement, one that directly targeted the state of commentary and journalism in Indian cricket. Rohit expressed deep dissatisfaction with how commentators and media houses have been focusing less on the sport and more on creating controversy and drama. According to him, this constant chase for “masala” content has not only harmed the sport’s image but also demoralised players who are trying their best on the field. He said:

You guys are focused on creating controversy, on blowing up news. The quality of journalism has gone down. Earlier, conversations would revolve around cricket. Now, it’s all about getting views, likes, and making more people read your articles. Very little is written or spoken about the game itself. Tactics, analysis – it’s all missing.

Rohit was particularly critical of how commentary in India has become less about cricket and more about narratives that sensationalise individual players’ lives. He stressed that many fans genuinely want to understand the tactical and technical aspects of the game, but that demand is being ignored. The obsession with views, likes, and viral moments has taken over, leaving no room for meaningful cricket conversations. He further added:

When there’s a match on, we watch it on TV. But listen to how commentators speak these days. When we go to Australia, we hear their commentary and the difference in quality is vast. Here, it’s so disappointing – and I’m being very honest. It seems like they just want to single out a player and keep talking about him or her. It’s very disappointing. There are so many people who want to know about the game. Why do they need masala? They are true cricket lovers. I know there’s this belief nowadays that fans want masala, but there are also those who want to understand the game.

Drawing a stark contrast, Rohit praised the quality of commentary in Australia, where discussions revolve around the game, not gossip. On his tours Down Under, he found their coverage informative and respectful, something he believes is missing in India. The constant targeting of individual players, often without context or cricketing logic has become a frustrating norm. He lamented that broadcasters often fixate on a single player, dissecting their personal life rather than their game. He concluded with:

Yes, things have sometimes gone out of our hands and we haven’t performed well. We fully deserve criticism for that. Yes, we didn’t do well against New Zealand at home – so yes, criticise us. But there’s a way to criticise people. I think here, it’s agenda-driven criticism. That’s not likeable.

The 38-year-old raised concerns about “agenda-driven” criticism, which he said has become all too common. Rohit admitted that players deserve criticism when performances drop, citing India’s poor outings against New Zealand and Australia. But he insisted that the tone and intent behind such criticism should remain constructive. In India, however, he feels that agendas shape the narrative, making it unfair and personal.

Has Rohit Sharma Stopped Listening to the Criticism?

After being beaten by the New Zealand team at home 3-0 and then going onto the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where the team lost 1-3 to Australia, Rohit Sharma faced a wave of criticism. Questions were raised about his form, captaincy, and even his technique. With his performances dipping, Rohit chose to step aside for the fifth Test in Sydney during the Australia tour, a decision that led to mixed opinions from fans and experts. While some called it a responsible move, others took it as a sign of weakness. He said:

Criticism is a part of a sportsperson’s life. Criticism is necessary and important. But what I’m against is unnecessary criticism. I don’t like it. There were a lot of things said about me. But I don’t pay attention to any of it, and it doesn’t affect me.

He admitted that while he accepts fair criticism as part of being a professional cricketer, he strongly opposes unfair and unnecessary remarks. Over the years, Rohit has often been targeted for specific technical flaws, especially his struggle against left-arm fast bowlers. Critics and commentators repeatedly pointed out this weakness, sometimes overshadowing his overall contribution to the team. He further added:

So many things have been said about me – like I can’t play left-arm fast bowlers, and many other things – but now, I don’t pay attention to it anymore. Now, if you go and defend it, a lot of things might go wrong. And you will be losing out on time, and time is precious. My work is to attack.

However, the Indian opener made it clear that he no longer lets outside noise affect him. He said that defending himself against every claim would only waste his time, and time, he believes, is too valuable to lose. His focus now remains on playing the game with intent and clarity, rather than worrying about what people say. Rohit also criticised the trend of overanalyzing players in the media, saying that such distractions do no good to either the player or the fans.

Is Rohit Sharma Eyeing the 2027 ODI World Cup?

When the Indian team failed to win the 2023 ODI World Cup Final against the Australian team, millions of hearts broke, including that of captain Rohit Sharma. It was a moment of deep disappointment for the entire nation, especially for Rohit, who had led the team impressively throughout the tournament. Despite India winning 10 consecutive matches, they stumbled at the last hurdle in Ahmedabad, and the dream of lifting the trophy remained unfulfilled.

Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, Rohit Sharma has set his sights on the 2027 ODI World Cup, to be held in South Africa. In a recent interview with journalist Vimal Kumar, Rohit revealed that the thought of playing in the next World Cup is definitely on his mind. He didn’t confirm it as a final decision but clearly said it would be great to finish his career by adding that missing piece, an ODI World Cup trophy to his achievements. He said:

Zehem mein bilkul hai (on playing ODI World Cup 2027). Bilkul [It’s definitely on my mind. Absolutely]. Acha rahega agar aisa hua to (on adding the ODI World Cup to his cabinet) [It would be great if that happens].

Rohit has already retired from T20 Internationals after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup and recently stepped away from Test cricket as well. His focus now is completely on the ODI format. With two Asia Cup titles, a T20 World Cup, and a Champions Trophy under his captaincy, Rohit has already proven himself as a successful leader in white-ball cricket.