RANCHI: Indian batsman Rohit Sharma has broken a decades- world record in One-Day International cricket by overtaking former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi for the highest number of sixes in ODI matches. Rohit has now launched 352 sixes exceeding Afridi’s total of 351 a milestone that stood unbeaten, for years.
The significant milestone occurred in the game of the current ODI series, against South Africa with Rohit starting the innings and making a strong 57 runs featuring three impressive sixes. These strikes brought his overall ODI sixes tally to 352 accomplished in 269 innings.
Prior to Rohit, Shahid Afridi held the record having blasted 351 sixes in 369 innings establishing himself as one of the powerful batsmen the sport has witnessed.
Chris Gayle, from West Indies ranks third on the list having hit 331 sixes across 294 innings.
Rohit Sharma leads not in ODIs but also tops the charts for the most sixes across every format in international cricket. The 38-year-old Indian skipper has now achieved a total of 645 sixes, in Tests, ODIs and T20Is together.
Chris Gayle is next with 553 sixes in his career followed by Shahid Afridi in place, with 476.
Rohit’s achievement adds yet another milestone to his illustrious career, reaffirming his status as one of the greatest power-hitters in world cricket.
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BCCI to Rohit Sharma: Focus on fitness and performance, not speculation
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has apparently suggested that former captain and senior opener Rohit Sharma avoid discussing rumours about his future and instead concentrate entirely on his fitness and performance, on the field.
Speculation was ongoing regarding the 37-year- batsman’s prospects before last month’s ODI series versus Australia. Nevertheless, Rohit performed impressively throughout the series achieving a century and a fifty finishing as India’s leading run-maker, against the six-time titleholders.
Rohit Sharma is also scheduled to participate in the three-game ODI series, against South Africa starting November 30.
As reported by the Times of India the BCCI has informed Rohit that he should refrain from making statements regarding his long-term plans emphasizing that his main focus should be on maintaining his fitness and batting form.
According to board insiders, the BCCI continues to anticipate Rohit to exhibit his aggressive style of play an element they found lacking in the Australia series. While they recognize the conditions Down Under sources observed that Rohit seemed hesitant to take chances. The board expects experienced players such, as Rohit and Virat Kohli to lead by example for the emerging batsmen.
Indian media outlets have likewise indicated that after the South Africa series the selectors and team management will meet with the board to deliberate on the roles of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, in the ODI framework.
According to BCCI sources, it is important to clearly define expectations for players of their stature. “Big players like Rohit and Kohli need clarity about their roles. Uncertainty is not ideal for their performance,” the source said.
