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Gautam Gambhir Hails Rohit Sharma as “A Master, A Leader & A Gem” Following Test Retirement
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Rohit Sharma with Gautam Gambhir during their recent Champions Trophy triumph (Image: BCCI)
Gambhir’s Heartfelt Tribute
India head coach Gautam Gambhir shared a touching tribute for Rohit Sharma moments after the Indian captain announced his retirement from Test cricket on Wednesday. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Gambhir expressed his admiration for Rohit’s contribution to Indian cricket in the longest format of the game.
A master, a leader & a gem! #RohitSharma
— Gautam Gambhir
This heartfelt message from Gambhir comes as a testament to Rohit Sharma’s impact on Indian cricket, particularly in Test matches where he transformed from a middle-order batsman to one of India’s most successful opening batsmen and captains in recent years.
Addressing Relationship Rumors
Gambhir’s tribute is particularly significant as it comes just days after he firmly dismissed speculation about tension between him and Rohit. The rumors had been circulating on social media and various cricket discussion platforms, suggesting potential discord between the newly appointed head coach and the Indian captain.
Speaking at the ABP India At 2047 Summit earlier this week, Gambhir directly addressed the chatter surrounding their relationship. He attributed these rumors to YouTube channels and self-proclaimed “experts” seeking TRP ratings rather than reporting based on facts.
Yeh sirf kuch logon ne jo YouTube channel chala rahe hain, ya jo ‘experts’ bane baithe hain TRP ke liye bola hai. We won the Champions Trophy just two months ago—imagine if we hadn’t. What kind of questions would you be asking me then?
— Gautam Gambhir at ABP India At 2047 Summit
Gambhir’s pointed response highlighted how quickly narratives can change in Indian cricket, especially when it comes to relationships between key figures in the team management structure. The fact that India had recently won the Champions Trophy under their partnership was, according to Gambhir, evidence enough of their effective working relationship.
Gambhir’s Respect for Rohit
The India head coach elaborated on his relationship with Rohit Sharma, emphasizing his long-standing respect for the Indian captain both as a cricketer and as a person. Gambhir’s words reflected genuine admiration for Rohit’s achievements and contributions to Indian cricket over the years.
Gambhir on Rohit’s Legacy
Gambhir praised Rohit’s leadership and legacy, making it clear that their professional relationship has always been one of mutual respect and appreciation:
Just two months ago, a coach and captain won the Champions Trophy together, and now you’re asking about my relation with Rohit? I respect him as a human being and as a cricketer. What he has done for India is incredible. I’ve had a lot of time for him since the day he came into the team, and that won’t change.
— Gautam Gambhir
This statement from Gambhir not only dismisses any notion of discord but also provides insight into the high regard he holds for Rohit Sharma. The acknowledgment of Rohit’s incredible contributions to Indian cricket underscores the professional respect that forms the foundation of their working relationship.
Shikhar Dhawan’s Message
Gambhir wasn’t the only prominent cricket figure to acknowledge Rohit’s Test retirement. Former Indian opener and Rohit’s long-time batting partner, Shikhar Dhawan, also shared a poignant message on his Instagram story, celebrating Rohit’s Test career while looking forward to his future endeavors.
The whites are off but life’s got a new test lined up. Go ace it like you always do.
— Shikhar Dhawan on Instagram
Shikhar Dhawan’s Instagram story acknowledging Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement
Dhawan’s message reflects the camaraderie that exists among India’s cricket fraternity, with current and former players coming together to celebrate Rohit’s illustrious Test career. The metaphorical reference to life having “a new test lined up” acknowledges that while one chapter closes for Rohit, new challenges and opportunities await him.
Rohit’s Test Career Statistics
As Rohit Sharma brings the curtain down on his Test career, he leaves behind an impressive legacy in the longest format of the game. His transformation from a middle-order batsman to a successful opener remains one of the most remarkable career pivots in modern cricket.
Rohit Sharma’s Test Career Highlights
| Statistic | Figure |
|---|---|
| Matches | 67 |
| Total Runs | 4301 |
| Centuries | 12 |
| Tests as Captain | 14 |
| Wins as Captain | 9 |
Rohit’s captaincy record, with 9 wins from 14 Tests, stands as a testament to his leadership abilities. Under his captaincy, India reached the final of the World Test Championship and continued to be a dominant force in home conditions. His ability to lead from the front with both bat and tactical acumen has set a high standard for future Indian Test captains.
While Rohit may have bid farewell to Test cricket, his legacy in the format is secure. The heartfelt tributes from figures like Gautam Gambhir and Shikhar Dhawan underscore the impact he has had not just on the game itself, but on his teammates and the cricket fraternity as a whole. As India moves forward, Rohit’s contributions to Test cricket will be remembered as a significant chapter in the nation’s rich cricketing history.
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