In a match that saw India succumb to a humiliating defeat, there was a glimmer of individual brilliance as Rohit Sharma joined West Indies legend Chris Gayle in an elite club. Indian captain etched his name in the annals of ODI cricket history by equalling the record for the second most sixes in the format.
Rohit Sharma equals Gayle’s six-hitting phenomenon
Rohit, known for his penchant for hitting the ball out of the park, smashed his way to 331 sixes in ODIs, equalling Gayle’s record for the second-highest number of sixes in the format. Only Shahid Afridi stands ahead with 351 maximums.
The Mumbai batter, who has been in sublime form, was expected to surpass Gayle’s tally in the third ODI against Sri Lanka. Although he fell short of the target by one-six, his achievement was nonetheless remarkable. His ability to clear the boundary with such ease has made him one of the most feared batters in the world.
Rohit’s brief cameo in the third ODI
In a thrilling chase of 249, Rohit played a blistering cameo of 35 runs off just 20 balls. Although India fell short in their pursuit, the skipper’s innings was studded with one six, bringing him level with Gayle on the all-time list.
Also READ: India captain Rohit Sharma opens up after his team’s humiliating ODI series defeat against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka dominate India
Despite Rohit’s heroics, India’s performance in the match was far from impressive. The hosts produced a clinical display in all departments of the game to dismantle the Indian batting lineup. Sri Lanka’s bowlers were spot on, exploiting the Indian weakness against spin and seam alike.
The Indian batting crumbled under pressure, with the top order failing to get going. The middle order offered little resistance as the team was bundled out for a paltry total. The collapse triggered widespread criticism of the team’s batting approach and selection.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, chased down the target with relative ease, thanks to solid contributions from their top order. The victory not only gave them a series win but also exposed the chinks in India’s armour.
A career defined by big hits
Rohit’s career has been synonymous with big-hitting. His ability to effortlessly clear the ropes has made him a nightmare for bowlers around the world. This latest achievement further solidifies his status as one of the most destructive batters in the game’s history.
As the Mumbaikar continues to defy age and expectations, cricket fans eagerly await the day when he surpasses Afridi to claim the outright record for most sixes in ODIs.
The defeat has raised serious questions about India’s ODI team and their preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With the tournament just around the corner, the team management will have to address the issues plaguing the batting unit and find a way to improve their overall performance.
Rohit’s achievement, while commendable, could not mask the team’s overall failure. The Indian cricket fans will be hoping for a quick turnaround as the team looks to regain its momentum and confidence.
Also READ: Angry fans roast India head coach Gautam Gambhir after ODI series defeat against Sri Lanka
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