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New Delhi: Rohit Sharmas unexpected retirement from Test cricket has shocked many especially given his recent successes in other formats. Although his captaincy record in Test matches was less than stellar including series losses to New Zealand and Australia his recent victories in the Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup led to expectations that he would lead India in the upcoming England tour. His decision comes as a surprise to fans and players alike. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had undisclosed plans regarding Rohit Sharmas future. Speculation on social media and among reporters preceded Rohits retirement announcement by a day. His Test career which showed initial promise but ultimately lacked the same success as his T20I and ODI careers concluded abruptly. Following his podcast interview expressing interest in the England tour Rohit Sharmas exclusion is attributed to a decision by the BCCI selection committee. The Dainik Jagran reports that the BCCI sought a fresh approach for the next World Test Championship cycle leading them to opt against including Rohit. Speculation around Rohit Sharmas future in Test cricket began when he was omitted from Indias Playing XI for the fifth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. At the time it was believed that the decision was mutually made by Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir. However according to a report by Jagran Rohits response to the development was seen as a strong message to the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee indicating that he was not ready to step away from the longest format. The report further claims that Rohit had no intention of retiring from Tests and it was only after the BCCI issued a firm ultimatum—delivered on the evening of May 7—that he made the decision to step down. Despite a less-than-ideal departure Rohit Sharmas tenure as Indias Test captain deserves recognition. Since assuming the role in January 2022 he successfully led India to series victories against Australia and England at home contributing significantly with his own batting performances. His contributions included a century in the retained Border-Gavaskar Trophy and two centuries in the 3-1 home series win against England. Rohit Sharmas batting performance declined significantly in the latter half of last year. His poor run scoring against New Zealand (90 runs from 6 innings) contributed to Indias first home Test series loss in 12 years. This slump continued in Australia where he managed only 31 runs across five innings averaging 6.20. However under his captaincy India achieved a first-time Test series victory in South Africa since 2010-11.