After Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jadeja Also End T20 Career
BRIDGETOWN, (IANS) – India captain Rohit Sharma on June 30 announced his decision to retire from T20I cricket after leading his side to World Cup triumph in Barbados. The captain shared this news with the media soon after Virat Kohli hung up his boots from the shortest format of the game on June 29. Left-arm spin all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also later announced he is retiring from playing the shortest format of the game at the international level.
Rohit, who played a crucial role in India’s triumphant campaign, confirmed that he would continue to represent India in ODIs and Tests.
Rohit said during the post-match press conference, “No better time to say goodbye to this format. I’ve loved every moment of this. I started my India career playing this format. This is what I wanted, I wanted to win the cup. I wanted this badly. Very hard to put in words. It was a very emotional moment for me. I was very desperate for this title in my life. Happy that we eventually crossed the line.”
His retirement marks the end of an illustrious T20I career during which he became the format’s highest scorer, amassing 4231 runs in 159 matches. He also holds the record for the most centuries in T20 internationals, with five to his name. His T20I journey began with the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, where he was a key player in India’s first title win. Now, as captain, he has led India to their second title, further cementing his legacy.
This triumph was particularly special for Rohit, who had experienced both highs and lows in his cricketing career. The win was a testament to his leadership, resilience, and unwavering determination. Reflecting on his journey, Sharma said, “I’ve loved every moment of this. I started my India career playing this format. This is what I wanted, I wanted to win the cup.”
His retirement follows that of his long-time teammate, Virat Kohli, who also announced his departure from T20 internationals after the World Cup. Together, Sharma and Kohli have been pillars of Indian cricket, their contributions instrumental in numerous victories over the years.
Jadeja, who missed the 2022 edition of the tournament due to a knee injury, wrote he will continue representing the country in ODIs & Tests. “With a heart full of gratitude, I bid farewell to T20 internationals. Like a steadfast horse galloping with pride, I’ve always given my best for my country and will continue to do so in other formats.”
Since his debut in 2009 against Sri Lanka, Jadeja played 74 T20Is for India, making 515 runs at an average of 21.45 and strike-rate of 127.16, apart from taking 28 catches on the field. With the ball, he picked 54 wickets at an average of 29.85 and a strike-rate of 7.13.
