India captain Rohit Sharma humorously addressed a reporter’s mix-up during a press conference, clarifying that veteran batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have not retired from international cricket. This followed India’s draw in the Gabba Test, leveling the series 1-1.
The confusion began when Rohit discussed Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent retirement, a move that surprised the cricket world after the Gabba Test. During the conversation, a reporter asked Rohit about Pujara and Rahane’s careers, highlighting their long-term contributions to the Indian team.
Rohit’s initial reply hinted at a potential retirement for the duo, causing some confusion. Realizing the misunderstanding, he quickly clarified, jokingly assuring everyone that Pujara and Rahane had not retired from international cricket.
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“When you play som much cricket together, and then you see these boys leaving one by one, it does stir up some feeling obviously. But we cannot do anything. We are still friends and will always be freinds although they do not go to tours about us. Rahane is in Mumbai so we meet quite often. Pujara is always hiding in Rajkot but we still manage to catch up,” Rohit said.
“They have scored so many runs, helped India win so many matches so obviously they will be missed. By the way, Rahane has not announced retirement yet, you guys will get me into trouble. Pujara has not announced his retirement either, they are just not here right now. They are always welcome, and the doors are always open for them. You almost got me into trouble,” he added.
Pujara and Rahane are still key to India’s batting lineup
The incident lightened the mood after a tough Test match. Despite recent challenges, 35-year-old veterans Pujara and Rahane remain crucial to India’s batting lineup, having played 188 Tests and scored over 12,000 runs, anchoring the middle order for over a decade.
Inconsistent form saw Pujara and Rahane replaced by younger players. Rahane has found form domestically, while Pujara’s results have been mixed. India’s strong performance in the Gabba Test boosted their momentum for the Boxing Day Test, despite Ashwin’s retirement.
As for Pujara and Rahane, their names still resonate with Indian cricket fans, reminding everyone of their invaluable contributions and the hope that they may still have more to offer.
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