Rohit Sharma says he considered retirement after 2023 World Cup final defeat

Rohit Sharma

Former India captain Rohit Sharma recently revealed that he considered taking an early retirement from his illustrious career after the Men in Blue’s heartbreaking defeat to Australia in the ODI World Cup 2023 Final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in November 2023.

India were the strong favourite to clinch the coveted trophy when they entered the final against Australia, as the Rohit Sharma-led side had an unbeaten run, winning all 10 matches, including a semifinal against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, before the title clash against Australia. However, India could not cross the final hurdle and suffered a crushing defeat, falling short of ending their long-awaited quest for the ICC ODI World Cup title.

Despite being the host of the tournament, India were outplayed by a disciplined Australian side on the big day. This result left the players and fans devastated and prompted Rohit Sharma to reflect deeply on his future in the game.

‘Very Tough Time For Me Personally’

Speaking at the convocation ceremony in Gurgoan, Rohit Sharma reflected on the aftermath of the heartbreaking defeat to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad. The former India captain stated that the players were devastated by the loss and he had a tough time dealing with it as his effort into preparation to help India win the coveted trophy went in vain.

“Everybody was extremely disappointed, and we just couldn’t believe what had happened. It was a very tough time for me personally because I had put everything into that World Cup not just two or three months before it, but ever since I took over the captaincy in 2022." the 38-year-old said.

“My only goal was to win the World Cup, whether it was the T20 World Cup or the 2023 World Cup. So when it didn’t happen, I was completely devastated. There was no energy left in my body. It took me a couple of months to recover and bring myself back,” he added.