Rohit Sharma, an integral part of the Indian cricket team, has established himself as a dynamic opener and captain, etching his name in cricket history. His journey from his ODI debut in 2007 to becoming a record-breaking batter is a testament to his talent and hard work.
Debut in ODIs
Rohit Sharma made his ODI debut on June 23, 2007, against Ireland in Belfast. He didn’t get the opportunity to bat as India chased down a revised target of 171 runs to win by 9 wickets. Although he didn’t bat in his debut match, he played his first ODI innings against South Africa in 20074. It was the first time Rohit Sharma batted for India in One Day Internationals.
Key Statistics and Career Overview
Star India batter Rohit Sharma made his ODI debut in 2007 and played 153 ODIs till 2016, scoring 5131 runs. Since 2017, he has played 113 ODI matches, accumulating 5737 runs. From 2007 to 2016, Rohit averaged 41.37 with a strike rate of 84.43, hitting 10 centuries and 29 half-centuries. Since 2017, his average has risen to 58.54 with a strike rate of 100.91, including 21 centuries and 28 half-centuries.
| Matches Played | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries | Half-Centuries | |
| 2007 to 2016 | 153 | 5131 | 41.37 | 84.43 | 10 | 29 |
| 2017 to 2025 | 113 | 5737 | 58.54 | 100.91 | 21 | 28 |
Top 6 ODI Knocks of Rohit Sharma
- 264 vs Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens
Rohit Sharma etched his name in history by scoring the highest individual score in ODI history, 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014. This remarkable innings saw India amass a total of 404/5, securing a 153-run victory as they dismissed Sri Lanka for 251. It was a remarkable performance by Sharma as he recalled his 264-run stand to dismiss the Lankan bowlers.
- 209 vs Australia at Bengaluru
In a high-scoring ODI series against Australia, Rohit Sharma was in exceptional form, culminating in a violent 209 in the deciding ODI in Bangalore. He scored 491 runs in 6 innings. This innings saw him join an elite list of batsmen with multiple double centuries in ODIs. Sharma’s incredible innings helped India reach a massive total.
- 208* vs Sri Lanka at Mohali
Rohit Sharma scored his first double-century in Tests against South Africa. His second double-hundred came against Sri Lanka in 2014. This score remains an ODI record for the highest individual score.
- 171* vs Australia at W.A.C.A
Against Australia at the WACA, Rohit played an unbeaten innings of 171, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and guide his team to victory. This knock showcased his aggressive batting style and his ability to dominate the opposition.
- 162 vs West Indies at Brabourne
Rohit Sharma’s 162 against the West Indies at Brabourne highlighted his consistency and class in the ODI format. This inning was characterized by powerful hitting and excellent placement, making it a memorable performance in his career.
- 159 vs West Indies at Visakhapatnam
In Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma scored 159 against the West Indies, further solidifying his reputation as a premier ODI batsman. This inning was a blend of aggression and stability, allowing India to post a competitive total.
Advice from Rohit Sharma
Harshit Rana revealed that advice from Rohit Sharma helped him during his ODI debut against England. Rana took three wickets and said that he stuck to his plan with Rohit to extract pace and bounce. Sharma advised him to bowl as tight as possible.
Evolution and Records
Over the years, Rohit Sharma has evolved into one of the leading batsmen in the world, particularly in the limited-overs format. He holds the unique distinction of being the only cricketer to score three double centuries in ODIs. His highest score of 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014 remains the highest individual score in ODI history.
He has also played crucial roles in many of India’s tournament victories, including the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. In test matches, Sharma made his debut in 2013 and has been a consistent performer. He has the distinction of being the first batter to score hundreds in his maiden Test as an opener.
