Big Indian Cricketers Retire from Test Cricket (Social Media)
Sports News: The year 2025 will be remembered as one of the most emotional phases in Indian Test cricket, with several stalwarts announcing their retirement from the longest format. The exits of Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, Wriddhiman Saha, and Piyush Chawla have created a void that will not be easy to fill. Each of them played a vital role in shaping India’s modern Test identity, and their contributions will be remembered for generations.
Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s dependable “new wall” after Rahul Dravid, retired in August 2025. Known for his grit and resilience, he played 103 Tests, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries. His marathon knocks were instrumental in India’s historic overseas wins, particularly the 2018–19 series victory in Australia.
In May 2025, Virat Kohli brought the curtains down on his illustrious Test career, finishing with 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, and an average of 46.85 across 123 matches. Beyond the numbers, Kohli transformed India into a fearless side abroad, leading them to landmark series wins and instilling aggression into the team’s character. He departs as the most successful captain in India’s Test history.
Rohit Sharma, one of the most stylish openers of his era, retired earlier in May 2025. He scored 4,301 runs in Tests at an average of around 40.6, with 12 centuries. As captain, Rohit’s tactical decisions and calm presence provided stability during a challenging transition phase, including leading India to the World Test Championship final in 2023.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire in late 2024 surprised many. Over 106 Tests, he captured 537 wickets, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, along with valuable contributions of 3,503 runs. His skill and cricketing intelligence made him one of the most impactful all-rounders of his era.
Wriddhiman Saha announced his retirement in February 2025. In 40 Tests, he scored 1,353 runs including three centuries, but his biggest legacy lies in his world-class wicketkeeping. Widely regarded as India’s finest wicketkeeper since MS Dhoni, Saha’s reliable glove work rescued the team time and again.
Piyush Chawla also retired in 2025, bringing an end to his long professional journey. Though his Test appearances were limited, he contributed across formats and was part of India’s broader cricketing story.
With so many experienced names gone, India stands at the beginning of a new era. Youngsters like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are expected to shoulder the batting responsibilities, while the bowling unit remains strong with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja leading the charge. The Ranji Trophy remains a vital pipeline, consistently producing new talent for Indian cricket.
The retirement of these legends marks the end of an era in Indian Test cricket. Their contributions, from Pujara’s patience to Kohli’s fire, Rohit’s elegance to Ashwin’s guile, will remain etched in cricketing history. At the same time, their departure opens opportunities for a new generation to step up. With the right blend of youth and guidance from remaining seniors, Team India looks ready to script another dominant chapter in Test cricket.
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