In a heartfelt conversation on Jitendra Chouksey’s YouTube channel, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma discussed his remarkable career and recent decision to retire from T20 International (T20I) cricket. The announcement came shortly after leading India to victory in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, a significant achievement that has marked the end of an era for one of cricket’s modern greats.
LPA Milestone in International Cricket
Rohit, who debuted in 2007, revealed that he is on the verge of playing 500 international matches for India, a feat accomplished by only a select few in the cricketing world. “To play for 17 years and to be close to 500 games for India is a remarkable feat,” he stated during the interview. The veteran cricketer attributed his longevity in the sport to a disciplined approach to fitness and mental preparation.
“Having such longevity requires a strong focus on fitness and mental conditioning. Our primary job is to be 100% ready for the game and to perform to win,” Rohit emphasized. His insights highlight the importance of rigorous training and mental strength in sustaining a long career at the highest level.
Timing of Retirement: A Thoughtful Decision
Sharma explained that his decision to step back from T20Is was made in the wake of the World Cup victory, believing it was the perfect time to transition. “The only reason I retired is that I’ve had my time. I enjoyed playing the format and performed well. Winning the World Cup made it the best time for me to move on,” he remarked. This decision reflects a commitment to paving the way for younger players who are eager to establish themselves in the national setup.
Rohit’s retirement is particularly poignant as he leaves the T20 format as a double World Cup champion, having initially lifted the trophy in 2007. Throughout his T20I career, he scored 4,231 runs in 151 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 32.05 and a strike rate of over 140. His record includes five centuries and 32 half-centuries, underscoring his status as one of the leading run-scorers in the format.
Rohit Sharma talks about the reason behind his retirement from T20Is
Reflections on a Cricketing Journey
Reflecting on his journey, Rohit recounted the humble beginnings of his cricketing career. He shared memories of playing in cramped spaces in Mumbai, where he honed his skills with friends. “When I was nine years old, I started playing cricket in my society,” he recalled. “The sport has numerous demands, including long travel and rigorous training, but those experiences shaped me into the player I am today.”
The skipper acknowledged the challenges of balancing cricket with education and personal life, admitting that the sport’s demands sometimes took a toll on his studies. He discussed the physical and mental strains of the game, emphasizing that these hardships contributed to his growth as a player and individual. “It did take a toll on me physically and mentally. But I enjoyed that, and those hard yards made me tough,” he reflected.
A Focus on Fitness and Team Contribution
For Rohit, fitness is not just about physical appearance; it is about being able to perform at the highest level. “Fitness is not just about looks; it’s about how you can perform in high-pressure situations over multiple days in Test matches or ODIs,” he asserted. His commitment to fitness and performance remains unwavering, even as he transitions out of the T20 format.
As India prepares for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, where they currently lead 1-0, Rohit Sharma will continue to lead the team in Test and One Day Internationals (ODIs). The second Test is scheduled to take place at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium, where Rohit’s leadership and experience will be vital for India’s continued success.
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