India all-rounder Shardul Thakur has shared his thoughts on the recent Test retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, ahead of India’s upcoming five-match series against England starting on 20 June.
Both senior players bid farewell to their Test careers earlier this month, only days apart. Shardul, who has played alongside them, believes their decisions likely came after realising they could no longer impact the longest format as effectively as before.
“They are the most senior and experienced ones in the game at present, but then again, it’s a personal call when they realise they will not be able to contribute and drive the format the same way as before,” Shardul told RevSportz. “There is a great deal of protection when senior players are around, and having a good mix of senior and junior players in the team provides flourishing results.”
With the retirement of Kohli and Rohit, the Indian team has lost a combined 190 Tests worth of experience, leaving the squad with a more youthful look for the England series. Despite that, Shardul is looking forward to what he calls a fresh challenge.
“With the absence of driving forces like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, I guess the most experienced player now is Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja). So overall, it is going to be an interesting tour for everyone, with different responsibilities on the shoulders, including new captaincy,” added Shardul.
Having returned to the Indian squad for the first time since 2023, Shardul is set to play the India A matches against the England Lions before joining the senior squad ahead of the high-profile five-match Test series.
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