"Signing off...": Rohit Sharma's post creates stir on social media, speculations of retirement surface

Star India opener Rohit Sharma took social media by a storm on Sunday with a cryptic post on Instagram stories after the conclusion of the three-match ODI series against Australia.

The former captain bagged the Player of the Match and Series awards in the third ODI at Sydney despite India losing the series 1-2.

Sharma shared a picture of himself entering the Sydney Airport and captioned it, “One last time, signing off from Sydney.”

The post invited discussions whether it signalled his final time playing in Australia or a broader hint about the next phase of his career.

Sharma slammed a stunning century in the third ODI and ended with an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, leading India's 237-run chase. He was joined by another legend, Virat Kohli, who scored 74 not out as the two stitched a a 168-run unbroken partnership.

This was also Sharma's 50th international century, which includes 12 in Tests, 33 in ODIs, and five in T20Is. He is the only batter with five centuries in all formats. It was also his 33rd ODI ton, ninth against Australia, and sixth century in Australia, equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most hundreds by an Indian against Australia.

Reflecting on the series, Sharma said, “It's not going to be easy, the bowlers are quality. We couldn't win the series, but we'll take a lot of positives. It’s our job now to guide the younger players and pass on the right message.”

Sharma scored 202 runs at an average of 101, including a 73-run knock in Adelaide in the second ODI. He emphasized the importance of mentorship, adding, “Seniors helped us a lot when we started; now it’s our turn to guide the youngsters and stick to the basics.”

Both Sharma and Kohli have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, leaving their careers in ODIs as a matter of speculation.

Sharma concluded, “I love playing in Australia — great grounds, great crowd. I hope I continue to do what I do. These memori es will always stay with me.”