Sharma’s Aborted Mid-Series Retirement Plan During England Tour

Rohit Sharma reportedly considered retiring midway through the forthcoming five-match Test series in England, echoing MS Dhoni’s unexpected departure during the 2014 tour of Australia, according to reports that surfaced on Wednesday in Indian media outlets.

A report suggests that the 38-year-old cricketer had intentions to conclude his international career on foreign soil during the series; however, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined his request.

This rejection reportedly played a pivotal role in Sharma’s subsequent decision to retire ahead of the series.

According to the report, selectors desired consistency throughout the series and proposed that Sharma participate, albeit without the captaincy. Ultimately, he chose to retire instead.

Sharma’s choice was quickly succeeded by Virat Kohli’s departure from red-ball cricket, signifying the conclusion of an era and presenting Indian selectors with a considerable leadership void within the Test squad.

Informal discussions have purportedly begun between the BCCI selection committee, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant, regarding potential successors to Sharma.

While an official announcement remains pending, Gill is considered a leading candidate for the Test captaincy.

Pant is viewed as a future leader and might assume a crucial supporting position as vice-captain.

The official unveiling of India’s squad for the England Test series, which will include the announcement of the new captain, is anticipated on May 24.

The five-match series, commencing on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds, will inaugurate India’s journey in the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

It will also represent India’s first significant red-ball assignment following the retirements of Sharma and Kohli from Test cricket.