End of an Era: Rohit Sharma's Unprecedented T20 World Cup Streak Concludes
The remarkable cricketing journey of Rohit Sharma, who appeared in every T20 World Cup since the tournament's inception, has reached a significant turning point. The Indian batting maestro, who was part of an elite group of only two players to feature in all nine editions, will witness the upcoming 2026 tournament from home rather than the playing field.
From Player to Ambassador: Rohit's New Role
In a significant development on Tuesday, ICC chairman Jay Shah announced Rohit Sharma as the official ambassador for the Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament is scheduled to be held in India next February, making this appointment particularly meaningful for the cricketing legend.
The 2024 T20 World Cup-winning captain described this honour as special, emphasizing that players are rarely appointed ICC ambassadors while still active in their playing careers. Despite retiring from T20Is last June and ending his Test career in May, Rohit remains an active cricketer in other formats and will soon rejoin the squad in Ranchi for India's three-match home ODI series against South Africa.
Adjusting to a New Reality
Rohit openly discussed the emotional challenge of transitioning from player to spectator. "I'm still getting used to sitting at home and watching it on TV," he remarked, referring to the upcoming World Cup experience. Having featured in every T20 World Cup so far, the thought of watching the tournament on television is something he admitted still feels unfamiliar.
Despite stepping away from T20Is more than a year ago, the former captain acknowledged that the shift to life as a retired player remains an ongoing adjustment. He confessed that the idea of no longer being in the dressing room, especially with Suryakumar Yadav now leading India's campaign as the team attempts to become the first side to retain the T20 title, continues to feel strange.
Reflecting on Triumphs and Challenges
The veteran cricketer reflected on his three ICC titles, including two as captain, and recalled how difficult it was to end India's long trophy drought between 2014 and 2023. He emphasized that winning any global trophy represents an immense challenge, and the team's desperation during the lean years made the recent triumphs even more meaningful.
Rohit expressed hope that the upcoming 2026 edition would generate the same excitement with a new group of Indian players. While he's gradually finding comfort in this new chapter of his career, he made it clear that he hasn't retired from all formats. "I'll be meeting the boys soon. I am still playing," he declared with a characteristic smile, reminding everyone that his cricketing journey continues despite the changes.
