India captain Rohit Sharma has addressed the ongoing speculation regarding his retirement from Test cricket after deciding to sit out the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Speaking during the lunch break on Day 2, Rohit clarified that his absence from the match was due to poor form, not retirement plans.

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Rohit, who has struggled in the series against Australia, averaging just 6.2 across three Tests, acknowledged his recent form issues but emphasized that he is not stepping away from the game. Speaking to Star Sports, he stated:

“This is not a retirement decision, neither am I stepping away from the game. I am out of this Test because I am out of form. There’s no guarantee that the runs won’t come after two months or five months. We have seen it too often in cricket: every minute, every second, every day, life changes.”

Rohit explained that the decision to sit out was made after the team arrived in Sydney, as he felt it was crucial to step aside and let in-form players take charge. He cited the importance of the opening partnership between KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal in India’s victory during the Perth Test, which was a key factor in his decision.

"When I arrived in Perth it was quite evident why we won that game. We had that 200-run (opening) partnership in the second innings, which is what won us the game. KL Rahul and Jaiswal played really well, and they brought us into a situation where we couldn't lose the game," Rohit added.

He also addressed the speculation surrounding his retirement, expressing confidence that his form will improve with time. Rohit emphasized the need to be realistic while dismissing the opinions of critics who question his career choices.

“I have belief in myself that things will change. At the same time, I have to be realistic with myself. The opinions of those with a mic, a pen, or a laptop can’t change our life. I have played for so many years, they can’t decide when we should retire, when we should sit out or lead. I am sensible and mature, the father of two kids – I have some idea about what to do with life,” Rohit concluded.