Top 5 memorable innings of Rohit Sharma in ODIs

Cricket is widely regarded as a sport where players reach their peak early, often excelling in their mid-twenties before gradually seeing a decline in performance. However, Rohit Sharma stands as a clear exception to this pattern. The former Indian captain discovered his true consistency and dominance much later in his career, transforming himself into one of the most reliable and destructive batters in world cricket only after turning 30.

Since 2017, Rohit Sharma has produced extraordinary numbers in One Day Internationals, scoring 6,385 runs in 126 matches at an impressive average of 58.07. During this period, he has registered 23 centuries while maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 100.94. His career reached a turning point when he was permanently promoted to the opening position, a decision that unlocked his full potential. The move allowed him to play with greater freedom, express his natural stroke play, and build long, impactful innings at the top of the order.

Following this change, Rohit consistently delivered match-winning performances across seasons. In 2017 alone, he scored 1,293 runs at an outstanding average of 71.83 in just 21 matches, followed by back-to-back dominant years in 2018 and 2019 with over 1,000 runs each season. Even through injuries and occasional dips in form, he has remained a pillar of Indian batting. In 2023, while leading the side, he further elevated his game by scoring 1,255 runs in 27 matches, reinforcing his value as both a leader and a premier batter.

As 'Hitman' turns 39 today, here’s a look at the five best innings in ODIs that highlight his greatness and long-standing impact on the game. Rohit Sharma remains the only player in ODI history to score three double centuries and also holds the record for the highest individual score in the format. His journey is not just about statistics, but about evolution, patience, and redefining longevity in modern cricket.

Top 5 memorable innings of Rohit Sharma in ODIs

5. 171* vs Australia – Perth, 2016

In the opening ODI of the five-match series between India and Australia in Perth, the visitors were put in to bat after MS Dhoni, then captain of India, won the toss and opted to set a target. Rohit Sharma rose to the occasion with a commanding and composed innings, anchoring India’s batting effort with a brilliant unbeaten 171 off 163 deliveries, decorated with 13 fours and seven sixes.

He was well supported by Virat Kohli, who contributed a fluent 91-run knock, as the duo stitched together a crucial 207-run partnership for the second wicket. Their stand provided stability and momentum, helping India post a competitive total of 309/3 in the allotted 50 overs on a challenging Australian surface.

Despite Rohit’s outstanding batting display, India fell short in defending the target. Australia, led by Steve Smith, executed a strong chase and eventually secured a five-wicket victory, overshadowing Rohit’s heroic effort in a high-scoring encounter.

4. 137 vs Bangladesh – ICC Cricket World Cup 2015

Heading into the crucial quarter-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 against Bangladesh, Rohit Sharma had endured a relatively quiet campaign, with questions being raised about his form and place in the side. However, on the big stage, the Indian opener responded in emphatic fashion with a composed and match-defining innings under pressure.

After the early departures of in-form batters Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli, Rohit took responsibility to anchor the innings. He crafted a brilliant 137 off 126 deliveries, showcasing control and precision, with 14 boundaries and three sixes. His knock provided the much-needed stability and momentum to India’s batting lineup at a critical juncture.

Rohit’s innings played a pivotal role in guiding India to a strong total, ultimately helping the team secure a convincing victory. His performance not only silenced critics but also ensured India’s progression to the semi-finals, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations on the world stage.

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3. 209 vs Australia – Bengaluru, 2013

In the deciding seventh ODI of a closely contested series between India and Australia, the stakes were high with the series level at 2-2. Australia, led by George Bailey, won the toss and opted to field first at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, setting the stage for a memorable contest.

India got off to a solid start as openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma stitched together a 112-run partnership for the first wicket before Dhawan was dismissed. From there on, Rohit took complete control of the innings, launching a relentless assault on the Australian bowling attack. Displaying a perfect blend of timing and power, he went on to register his maiden ODI double century.

Rohit Sharma finished with a remarkable 209 off 158 deliveries, smashing 12 fours and 16 sixes at a strike rate of 132.27. His extraordinary knock powered India to a massive total of 383/6 in 50 overs. In response, Australia were bowled out for 326, as India secured a convincing 57-run victory, with Rohit’s innings standing out as the defining performance of the match.

2. 208* vs Sri Lanka – Mohali, 2017

After a setback in the first ODI against Sri Lanka, India bounced back strongly in the second match of the three-game series at Mohali. Sri Lanka captain Thisara Perera won the toss and opted to field first, but the decision backfired as India’s top order laid a solid foundation.

Openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma added 115 runs for the first wicket, with Dhawan contributing a fluent 68 before his dismissal. Rohit then took complete charge of the innings, building a crucial 213-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who played a valuable knock of 88. The Indian skipper showcased his dominance by dismantling the Sri Lankan bowling attack with remarkable ease.

Rohit Sharma went on to score an unbeaten 208 off 153 deliveries, striking 13 fours and 12 sixes, registering his third double century in ODIs. His innings powered India to a massive total of 392/4 in 50 overs. In reply, Sri Lanka were restricted to 251/8, as India secured a comprehensive 141-run victory. Rohit was deservedly named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.

3. 264 vs Sri Lanka – Kolkata, 2014

In the fourth ODI of the five-match series against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India had already secured an unassailable 3-0 lead. Captain Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first, providing the perfect platform for the hosts to dominate once again.

India got off to a steady start, with Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane adding 40 runs for the opening wicket. Rohit, however, had an early moment of fortune after being dropped on just four, a mistake that proved extremely costly for Sri Lanka. Capitalising on the opportunity, he went on to deliver one of the greatest innings in ODI history.

Rohit Sharma produced a breathtaking knock of 264 off 173 deliveries, smashing 33 fours and nine sixes at a staggering strike rate of 152.60. His record-breaking innings, along with Kohli’s contribution of 66, propelled India to a massive total of 404/5 in 50 overs. In response, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 251, falling short of even Rohit’s individual score, as India registered a dominant 153-run victory. Rohit was named Player of the Match for his extraordinary performance, which remains the highest individual score in ODI cricket.