Follow UsAjinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma have played a lot of cricket together for India and Mumbai, and the former was “actually shocked” after the latter announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 7 (Wednesday).
Rohit, who led India in 24 Tests, confirmed his retirement right after the news of him being removed as India captain was published by a leading media house on Wednesday.
"Oh, is it? I just want to wish him the best. I thought he has done fantastically well in the Test format. I didn't know (about the retirement)," said Rahane after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 57 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
ALSO READ - Which Opener Will Succeed Rohit Sharma In Test Cricket For India?
"I'm actually shocked. I didn't know that he retired in the Test format. But I just want to wish him the best."
Rohit, who led India to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) in the 2021-23 cycle, was out of form in the longest format, averaging 6.20 and 15.6 in the five-match and three-match series against Australia and New Zealand, respectively, in 2024.
Having played 67 Tests, Rohit scored 4301 runs at an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 fifties to his name. As an opener, the right-hander scored 2697 runs at an average of 42.81.
"Whatever his plans are, he has done really well, improved his game, as a Test batter. He started his career 5-6 number and then opened the innings," Rahane said.
"I thought the way he adapted to that opening slot was amazing to see. He always wanted to take on the bowlers, play with freedom. And that's what he wanted other players to do as well, play with freedom."
From the time it was made clear that Rohit would not be able to lead the Indian team on tour of England, his place in the playing 11 came under the scanner and thus, there was hardly any option left for the veteran but to call it quits.