In a recent cricketing spectacle, India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, achieved a remarkable milestone that etched his name in the annals of cricket history. During India’s match against New Zealand in the ongoing ODI World Cup, Rohit Sharma accomplished something truly extraordinary. He became the first Indian player and the third player overall to hit 50 or more ODI sixes in a calendar year.
Rohit Sharma has been in sublime form throughout the ODI World Cup, captivating cricket enthusiasts with his remarkable performance. His journey to hitting 50 ODI sixes in a calendar year has been nothing short of spectacular.
During the match against New Zealand in Dharamsala, Rohit Sharma reached this remarkable milestone. In the second over of India’s chase, Rohit sent New Zealand pacer Matt Henry’s delivery soaring over the boundary rope, notching up his 50th ODI six in the calendar year 2023.
Before Rohit Sharma’s feat, only two other cricketers had achieved this extraordinary milestone. South Africa’s AB de Villiers, with 58 sixes in 2015, and West Indies’ legendary Chris Gayle, with 56 sixes in 2019, were the only players to have struck 50 or more maximums in a calendar year. Rohit Sharma’s accomplishment places him in the elite company of these cricketing legends.
Batters with 50 ODI sixes in a calendar year
58 – AB de Villiers (2015)
56 – Chris Gayle (2019)
53 – Rohit Sharma (2023)
Apart from reaching the milestone, Rohit Sharma played a pivotal role in India’s chase. He contributed a quickfire 46 runs before being dismissed by Lockie Ferguson in the 12th over. His aggressive batting style set the tone for India’s pursuit of New Zealand’s target of 274.
After the match, Rohit Sharma shared his thoughts and reflected on India’s performance. His insights and perspectives give us a glimpse into the mindset of a champion cricketer.
Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of maintaining balance in a cricket tournament. He stressed the need to stay in the present moment and not get carried away by thoughts of the future. This mindset is crucial in a high-stakes tournament like the ODI World Cup.
Rohit Sharma praised Mohammed Shami for seizing the opportunity and delivering a brilliant performance with the ball. Shami’s experience and class as a bowler played a significant role in India’s victory.
Rohit also acknowledged his partnership with Shubman Gill, highlighting the synergy between their playing styles. He underlined how their distinct personalities complement each other on the field.
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Rohit expressed his gratitude to Virat Kohli, who has been a stalwart of Indian cricket for many years. He commended Kohli’s commitment to delivering consistently for the team.
In the same match, Daryl Mitchell’s sparkling century guided New Zealand to a competitive total of 273 runs. Despite losing their openers early, Mitchell’s remarkable innings, along with Rachin Ravindra’s contribution of 75 runs, helped New Zealand get back on track. This partnership between Mitchell and Ravindra, which amounted to 159 runs, set a new record for the highest partnership between the two teams at a World Cup.
Fast bowler Mohammed Shami played a crucial role in India’s victory, especially in the final 10 overs. He returned with impressive figures of 5-54, making a significant impact in his first appearance at the tournament.
