• Rohit Sharma has joined Chris Gayle in an interesting record only falling behind to Shahid Afridi.

  • India capitulated to Sri Lanka in a one-sided contest despite Rohit’s blistering start in the initial phase.

Rohit Sharma joins the elite club with Chris Gayle during 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka
Rohit Sharma joins this elite club with Chris Gayle during the third ODI with Sri Lanka (Image source: X)

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. Indi🎐an 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 bo𝄹undary with such ease has made him one of the mo🙈st 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 ca🉐ptain Rohit Sha🌃rma 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 ꦡand expectations, cricket fans eagerly await the day when he surpasses Afridi to claim the outri𒀰ght 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 Inꦅdia head coach Gautam Gambhir after ODI seriesಌ defeat against Sri Lanka

Subscribe to to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Featured India Rohit Sharma

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on , , and .