Sydney: As India celebrated a stunning nine-wicket victory over Australia, powered by Rohit Sharma’s unbeaten 121 and Virat Kohli’s 74, speculation about the duo’s retirement has taken centre stage.
Rohit, fondly called the ‘Hitman’, dropped a cryptic hint about his future, sparking curiosity about the retirement process for Indian cricketers.
Retirement in Indian cricket isn’t just a personal choice; it involves formal communication with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). While there’s no fixed timeline for announcing retirement, players typically inform senior BCCI officials — such as the president, secretary, or chief selector — before going public. This ensures the board, selectors, and team management are prepared for a smooth transition, aiding future team selections and tournament planning.
For players representing their state in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, notifying the respective state cricket association is also essential. This step eliminates confusion during team selections and ensures the decision is officially recorded at both domestic and national levels.
Unlike some international boards, such as Sri Lanka’s, which mandates a three-month notice period, the BCCI leaves the timing to the player’s discretion. Some announce retirement right after a match or series, while others provide advance notice to allow the board to strategise.
The stellar performances of Rohit and Kohli in Sydney have left fans wondering about the longevity of these legends. Their retirement decisions, whenever they come, will undoubtedly follow this structured yet flexible process, ensuring Indian cricket transitions seamlessly into its next chapter.