On the occasion of his 37th birthday, it's challenging to pick just a few of Rohit Sharma's greatest knocks, given the abundance of memorable innings he has played throughout his career
Rohit Sharma, born on April 30, 1987, in Mumbai, is widely regarded as one of the most excellent openers of his generation. Known for his impeccable timing, elegant stroke play, and ability to hit towering sixes, he earned the "Hitman" moniker in the cricketing world. Rohit's contributions to Indian cricket have been immense as a batsman and leader.
Since becoming captain of the Indian cricket team in 2022, Rohit Sharma has showcased his leadership skills and led the team with distinction. His illustrious career is adorned with numerous records, both at the national and international level, highlighting his prowess with the bat.
On the occasion of his 37th birthday, it's challenging to pick just a few of Rohit Sharma's greatest knocks, given the abundance of memorable innings he has played throughout his career. However, as we celebrate his special day, let's take a moment to recall some of his most magnificent performances on the cricket field.
After being dropped early in his innings, Rohit seized the opportunity and punished the Sri Lankan bowlers with a breathtaking display of stroke-making at the iconic Eden Gardens. By the time he was done, Rohit had amassed a staggering 264 runs off 173 balls, setting a new benchmark for the highest individual score in ODI cricket.
His innings were laced with an incredible 33 boundaries and nine towering sixes. His extraordinary effort propelled India to a commanding total of 404 runs. In response, the Sri Lankan team struggled to counter the Indian bowling attack and was ultimately bowled out for 251 runs in 43.1 overs.
Hitman etched his name in cricketing history by scoring a double century in ODI. By the time he reached the milestone, Rohit had amassed a staggering 209 runs off just 158 deliveries, becoming only the third player, after Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, to achieve this feat in ODI cricket. His innings included 12 boundaries and an astounding 16 sixes, a testament to his ability to clear the ropes with ease and authority.
Facing the Sri Lankan bowling attack at Mohali, Rohit showcased his unparalleled batting brilliance once again by recording his third double-century in ODI cricket. His monumental knock of 208 runs off just 153 balls featured a breathtaking array of strokes, including 13 boundaries and an astonishing 12 sixes. His ability to find the gaps and clear the ropes at will showcased his confidence and mastery of the game. Thanks to Rohit's heroics, India posted a formidable total of 392. India eventually emerged victorious in the match by a margin of 141 runs.
'Hitman' celebrating his half-century against Afghanistan
Rohit's exceptional innings of 121 not out off 69 balls, adorned with 11 fours and eight sixes, served as the cornerstone of India's remarkable recovery in the third T20I against Afghanistan in Bengaluru. Coming to the crease with India reeling at 22 for four, he displayed immense grit and determination, gradually finding his rhythm to register his half-century off 41 deliveries.
Subsequently, he accelerated his scoring rate, bringing up his next fifty in a mere 22 balls, showcasing his ability to switch gears seamlessly. His partnership with Rinku Singh, who contributed a vital 69* off 39 balls, yielded an unbeaten 190 runs for the fifth wicket, propelling India to a commanding total of 212 for four.
