Sharma, Kohli, and Jadeja have played pivotal roles in the Indian cricket

Within minutes of India lifting the T20 World Cup in Bridgetown on Saturday afternoon, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from T20 Internationals. An hour later, his skipper Rohit Sharma followed suit, prompted by a query at the post-match press conference. Shortly after, Ravindra Jadeja joined the two stalwarts in retiring from T20 Internationals, revealing the news on social media.

None of these retirements came as a surprise. Rohit has just turned 37, Kohli will be 36 in November, and Jadeja is five and a half months short of his 36th birthday. Each has spent over a decade and a half representing the country and remains a key player in Tests and One-Day Internationals. Winning the T20 World Cup has provided a fitting conclusion to their T20I careers, leaving them nothing more to achieve in the format.

Although they have retired from international T20s, Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja are likely to continue playing T20 franchise cricket. Fans can look forward to seeing them in various T20 leagues, maintaining their presence in the shorter format.

India faces a packed schedule over the next 12 months, with two long and arduous away Test series bookending the 50-over Champions Trophy, tentatively scheduled for February-March 2025. India's next Test assignment is at home against Bangladesh, followed by three more against New Zealand before embarking on a five-Test series in Australia. If India reaches the World Test Championship final again, it will be followed by a five-Test series in England, where India hasn't won a series since 2007.

As a rejuvenated Test opener and captain, Rohit Sharma has much to target. The T20 World Cup triumph has softened the blow of not winning the 50-over World Cup at home last year. The upcoming Champions Trophy and the promise of a maiden World Test Championship crown are significant motivators for Rohit. With his bat in excellent form, he aims to make the most of his remaining international career, while also being grateful for the increased time he can now spend with his young family.

Virat Kohli's reputation as the best batter of his generation has faced some scrutiny, though he remains the most coveted wicket for the opposition. At this stage of his career, individual milestones hold less significance compared to collective team success. Kohli's legacy is firmly established, but his enthusiasm, energy, and hunger to contribute more remain undiminished. He aims to prepare the next generation for life without him and Rohit, continuing to serve as a role model in fitness and work ethic. Kohli might be done with T20Is, but he is far from done with cricket, and his contributions to Indian cricket are immense.

Ravindra Jadeja, known for his all-round abilities and fitness, remains a crucial player for India in Tests and ODIs. Despite not being as glamorous as his contemporaries, his contributions are invaluable. India is fortunate to have a wealth of talented players ready to step up, and the transition will be smoother with experienced players like Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja guiding the new generation.

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja have played pivotal roles in shaping the Indian cricket team's culture and performance. Their retirements from T20 Internationals mark the end of an era, but their contributions will continue to influence Indian cricket. The national team is well-prepared for the future, thanks to prudent succession planning and the guidance of these experienced players.