Rohit Sharma's sudden retirement from Test cricket earlier this year, following a poor run in the 2024/25 season, surprised many. While his white-ball achievements are undeniable, his Test career felt somewhat unfulfilled. The decision to retire ahead of the England series, without a farewell game, raised eyebrows, especially since many believed he still had much to offer in the longest format.

Former India selector Jatin Paranjpe has now revealed a conversation that sheds light on Rohit's mindset regarding Test cricket. Paranjpe recalled a time when Rohit wasn't consistently playing Test cricket for India. During their conversation, Rohit stated, "I started playing cricket with a red ball, Jatin. How can you say that I am not interested in Test cricket?". Paranjpe shared this anecdote on the 'A Century of Stories' podcast with Cyrus Broacha.

When Brocha asked Paranjpe if Rohit felt "offended" by the question about his red-ball priorities, Paranjpe confirmed that he did. He further explained that Rohit's perspective made him reconsider his own assumptions. Rohit's point was that he had grown up playing with the red ball and couldn't imagine being disconnected from it.

Paranjpe believes that Rohit Sharma could have achieved more in Test cricket. He expressed disappointment that Rohit chose to drop himself from the Sydney Test against Australia. Paranjpe felt that India could have leveled the series if Rohit had played. India ultimately lost that Test, losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Rohit's Test career had its highs and lows. After struggling to cement his place in the team, his fortunes changed when he started opening in 2019. From 2020 to 2024, he became a reliable Test player for India. However, his form dipped after September 2024. Despite this, Paranjpe believes that Rohit "lives for Test cricket". Even after stepping down from the Sydney Test, Rohit had said that he was "going nowhere". However, he later announced his retirement.

Paranjpe also credited Ravi Shastri for playing a significant role in Rohit's Test revival. He revealed that Shastri suggested giving Rohit a chance as an opener, a decision that proved to be a game-changer. Shastri's trust helped Rohit find his rhythm in Test cricket and revive his red-ball career.