Rohit Sharma Retires Iconic 45 Jersey as Gill Takes Over
Indian cricket witnessed a major turning point on October 4, when the BCCI announced Shubman Gill as the new ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. The decision officially brought an end to Rohit’s leadership era, one that delivered India two historic ICC titles — the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025. So let’s know why Rohit Sharma Retires Iconic 45 Jersey?
The news came as a shock to many fans, who expected Rohit Sharma to continue leading until the 2027 ODI World Cup. But amid this transition, a 13-year-old tweet from the “Hitman” resurfaced on social media, adding a twist of fate to the story.
Rohit Sharma’s Viral 2012 Tweet
Back in September 2012, when Rohit was struggling for form and runs, he briefly changed his jersey number from 45 to 77 in an attempt to turn things around. At the time, he posted on Twitter:
“End of an era (45) and the start of a new one (77)….”
That very number — 77 — now belongs to Shubman Gill, who has taken over as India’s new ODI captain. Fans on social media are calling it a “prophecy,” linking Rohit’s old post to the present moment as he passes the baton to the next generation.
Why Rohit Changed His Jersey Number in 2012?
In 2012, Rohit Sharma’s career was at a crossroads. With inconsistent performances and growing competition for places, he was desperate for a turnaround. Changing his jersey number to 77 was one of his many attempts to revive form. Interestingly, the change did help him regain rhythm, but he soon reverted to his original number 45 — a number that went on to become iconic in Indian cricket.
Over the years, “45” became synonymous with Rohit’s identity, symbolizing his success, resilience, and leadership.
Why Gill Replaced Rohit as ODI Captain
Explaining the decision, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said it was becoming difficult to manage three different captains across formats. Since Shubman Gill is already India’s Test captain, the ODI leadership was also handed to him to ensure consistency.
“ODI cricket is played less frequently now, so it’s important for the next leader to have enough time to prepare for the 2027 World Cup,” Agarkar said.
The End of an Era, The Start of Another
For fans, Rohit Sharma’s removal as captain marks the closing of a golden chapter. He brought stability, inspired confidence, and most importantly, ended India’s long ICC trophy drought. While he continues to remain part of the ODI squad, his leadership journey has now concluded.
The resurfacing of his 2012 tweet has only made this transition more emotional, as it perfectly mirrors the shift from Rohit’s iconic “45” era to Gill’s promising “77” era.
As one door closes, another opens — and Indian cricket now looks toward the future under Shubman Gill, while cherishing the unforgettable legacy of Rohit Sharma.
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