A friendship beyond cricket pitch: Rohit Sharma posts beautiful message for Pragyan Ojha on retirement

• Pragyan Ojha announced retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday.
• Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar were among those who wishes Ojha well for the next innings of his career.
• Ojha played 24 Tests, 18 ODIs and 6 T20Is for India.

Indian off-spinner Pragyan Ojha called times on his career on Friday, having represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs and 6 T20Is. While Ojha’s international career didn’t last long, he did manage to produce some memorable performances. The Twitterverse showered in love as the news of Ojha’s retirement came, a special message came from India’s limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma.

Having made his debut in 2008, Ojha’s career spanned for 16 years although international appearances faded away as the years progressed. He last represented India in 2013 but has been an active performer in domestic cricket. 

“It’s time I move on to the next phase of my life. The love and support of each and every individual will always remain with me and motivate me all the time,” Pragyan Ojha posted on Twitter with a long message,” Ojha tweeted as he announced his retirement with an emotional letter.

Reacting to the tweet, Rohit wished Ojha well for the next innings of his career having been his teammate in the national team as well as at Mumbai Indians.

“Ojhi, what a pleasure it has been to share some exciting memories whilst playing for India and Mumbai Indians. Our friendship goes way beyond the cricket pitch. Look forward to seeing you on the other side and passing on some knowledge to the next generation,” Rohit tweeted.

Rohit and Ojha have been teammates for two IPL franchises – Mumbai Indians and Deccan Chargers. They were a part of the Deccan team that won the 2009 edition of the T20 league, with Ojha bagging 18 wickets in the campaign.

Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman were also among those who wished Ojha well on the occasion, with the Master Blaster thanking him for making his retirement game special with his 10-wicket-haul in the match.

Ojha’s last game for India came against West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium on November 14, 2013 which was also Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement match.