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'I am not retiring' - Rohit silences rumours after Champions Trophy win

The 'Hitman' played a captain's knock of 78 runs as his side defeated their modern rivals New Zealand by 5 wickets in the final.

Rohit Sharma

Addressing the media after winning India vs New Zealand final, Rohit was asked about his future plans to which he said

Shashwat Nishant New Delhi

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The night belonged to Rohit Sharma and Team India, as they lifted the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking a historic third title win. But amidst the celebrations, one question loomed large—Was this Rohit's last dance in ODI cricket?
 
The Indian skipper, however, put all speculation to rest, dismissing retirement rumours in his trademark style. "I am not going to retire from this format," Rohit declared, ensuring that his reign in 50-over cricket is far from over. 
 
"Shreyas was the silent hero" – Rohit’s tribute to Iyer 
While the spotlight shone brightly on India’s triumph, Rohit reserved special praise for Shreyas Iyer, calling him the unsung hero of the final.
 
 
"Shreyas was crucial in the middle order. Even when I got out, he built an important partnership with Axar. He was the silent hero," Rohit acknowledged.
 
His words reflected the team-first mentality that defines India’s approach under his leadership.
 
"The hunger is alive" – The spirit of India's dressing room 
Rohit spoke about the unwavering hunger in the Indian camp, crediting senior players for setting the tone.
 
"Even those who have played a lot of cricket still have the hunger to win, and that rubs off on the younger players," he said. "We have 5-6 players who are real stalwarts… it makes the job easier for all of us."
 
The balance of experience and youth has been India's biggest strength, and this title win was a testament to that formula.
 
"No future plans, just enjoying the moment" 
When asked about his future roadmap, Rohit responded with a carefree grin, saying, "Koi future plan hai nahi, jo chal raha hai chalega" (There is no future plan, whatever is happening will continue).
 
It was classic Rohit—cool, composed, and unbothered by external noise. His focus remains on playing good cricket, winning matches, and enjoying the journey.
 
"Winning matters more than personal milestones" 
Rohit also reflected on his 2019 World Cup heartbreak, where despite his record-breaking run tally, India fell short in the semi-finals.
 
"I scored heavily in 2019, but it wasn’t enjoyable because the team didn’t win," he admitted. "When you contribute in a winning cause, that’s where the real satisfaction comes in."
 
His clarity in approach is evident—team first, records second. "I am clear in my mind about how I want to bat, and that is what I am trying to do," he added.
     
Rohit Sharma ODI stats
Span Mat Inns NO Runs HS Avg BF SR 100s 50s 0s 4s 6s
2007-2025 273 265 36 11168 264 48.76 12034 92.8 32 58 16 1045 344
  Rohit's class in 50-over format
 
The name 'Hitman' is fitting for a player of Rohit Sharma's calibre and personality, the Indian skipper has the 2nd most sixes in ODI cricket. Rohit has hit 344 sixes in 273 matches. He is second only to Shahid Afridi who has 351 sixes in his career. 
 
Most sixes in ODI cricket
Rank Player 4s 6s Mat Inn Runs HS 100s 50s Avg
1 Shahid Afridi 730 351 398 369 8064 124 6 39 23.57
2 Rohit Sharma 1045 344 273 265 11168 264 32 58 48.76
3 Chris Gayle 1128 331 301 294 10480 215 25 54 37.83
4 Sanath Jayasuriya 1500 270 445 433 13430 189 28 68 32.36
5 MS Dhoni 826 229 350 297 10773 183* 10 73 50.57
  Rohit Sharma has taken his side to the finals of all the ICC events, a feat that shows how valuable player he has proved to be for the side over the years. His man management skills along with an exquisite knowledge of the game makes him one of a kind in the game. 
 
A selfless approach for the team has seen him getting out and missing out on many accolades that could've added to his legend. Be it the dismissal against Australia in the ODI World Cup 2023 final among others, Rohit has always tried to do what's best for his team and lead them by example to win the world titles. 
Rohit Sharma captaincy record in ICC events
Event Matches Won Matches Lost Matches Drawn Notes
Champions Trophy 2025 5 0 0 India defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets
T20 World Cup 2022 4 2 0 India lost to England in semifinals
World Test Championship 2021-23 7 2 1 India lost to Australia in WTC final
ODI World Cup 2023 10 1 0 India lost to Australia in final
T20 World Cup 2024 8 0 0 India won the final after beating South Africa
World Test Championship 2023-25 8 7 2 India failed to qualify for the final
 
          

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First Published: Mar 09 2025 | 11:35 PM IST

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