Watch: Rohit Sharma’s epic reply to fans chanting Mitchell Starc's name at event

"Calm down guys"

India's T20 World Cup victory in 2024 was bittersweet. While they clinched the trophy, it marked the end of the T20I careers for stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja. The trio announced their retirements after India clinched the World Cup by defeating South Africa by seven runs in the final.

This World Cup not only concluded their T20I careers but also marked the end of Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach. Dravid, who retired with a World Cup title to his name, has been succeeded by Gautam Gambhir.

Rohit, currently in the USA with his family, recently responded humorously to fans chanting Australia pacer Mitchell Starc's name. While attending the launch of a cricket academy in Dallas, Rohit addressed fans mocking Starc, who was hit for 29 runs by Rohit in India’s World Cup clash against Australia. He told the fans to "Calm down guys," which amused everyone.

Fans shouted : Mitch Starc, Mitch Starc.Rohit Sharma said : Calm down guys. pic.twitter.com/ga3VFARhSv

— @IamHydro45_) July 14, 2024

Rohit, who retires as the top scorer in the format with 4231 runs in 159 games and holds the record for the most hundreds (five) in T20 internationals, has won two T20 World Cups: the first in 2007 and the latest in 2024 as captain.

Gambhir's first task as head coach will be the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. Reports suggest that Kohli and Rohit might be rested for the ODIs. In the T20Is, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to lead Team India, while wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul will captain the ODIs.

India's tour of Sri Lanka has been rescheduled, with the start delayed by a day to 27 July. The series now includes three T20 Internationals on 27, 28, and 30 July, followed by three ODIs.