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Champions Trophy 2025 Final to be Rohit Sharma's last dance in India jersey? Things shaping up in that direction

It does look like the Champions Trophy 2025 final could be Rohit Sharma's last game in Indian colours, especially if the Men in Blue win against New Zealand on Sunday (March 5).

The timing seems perfect - just like his T20I retirement after leading India to a World Cup triumph last year. If he bows out after another ICC title, it would be a fairytale ending to an incredible international career.

Champions Trophy 2025 Final to be Rohit Sharma s last dance in India jersey Things shaping up in that direction

However, Rohit hasn't made any official statement yet. Given India's ongoing transition, he might want to guide the team a little longer, at least in ODIs. But if this turns out to be a final hurrah, what a way to go out - lifting another major trophy as captain, cementing his legacy as one of India's greatest white-ball leaders along with MS Dhoni.

Rohit has also created an aura around his legacy. He is the only international captain in the history of the game to lead a team to the final of all four major ICC tournaments - World Test Championship, 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup, and Champions Trophy.

Rohit has truly left his mark as a leader, proving his ability to take India to the grandest stages across formats. It does seem like the Mumbaikar has made up his mind, and the Champions Trophy final could very well be his last game in Indian colours.

Gautam Gambhir, the head coach, would likely want Rohit to exit on a high note, especially after achieving so much as a captain. However, with Ajit Agarkar (chief selector) also in the picture, there might be discussions about whether Rohit should stay on for a little longer, at least to oversee the transition.

There is already a tacit understanding within the BCCI about Rohit's departure, an official announcement could come soon - either right after the Champions Trophy or post-IPL 2025.

Whatever happens, Rohit has nothing left to prove. If this is indeed his farewell, it will be a well-deserved exit for one of India's most successful captains in white-ball format.

Rohit's batting form hasn't been at its peak, but it hasn't hurt India's chances because the team has been performing well collectively. That's why there hasn't been much chatter about it.

However, given his role as India's primary aggressor at the top, a big knock in the final would be the perfect farewell if he does decide to step away. A classic Rohit innings - full of elegant stroke play and dominant stroke-making - would not only set the tone for India but also give him the ideal send-off.

After all, there's no better way for a great batter to sign off than with an innings to remember in a high-stakes final. If he can pull it off, it would be a moment for the ages!

Story first published: Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 23:08 [IST]
Other articles published on Mar 5, 2025
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