Rohit Sharma Silences Critics with Record-Breaking Century in Cuttack

Indian Captain Smashes 119 as India Seals ODI Series 2-0 in Cuttack

Cuttack (Odisha), February 10:

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma put on a batting masterclass in Cuttack, slamming a breathtaking 119 off 90 balls, as India defeated England by four wickets in the second ODI on Sunday. The win gave India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, extending their dominance in the format.

Rohit, who has been under scrutiny for his recent form, silenced his critics in style, smashing seven sixes and 12 fours to etch his name in the record books. With this knock, he overtook Chris Gayle to become the second-highest six-hitter in ODIs, now sitting at 338 sixes, trailing only Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi (351 sixes).

---

Rohit’s Explosive Knock Sets the Tone for India

Chasing 305 runs, Rohit Sharma started cautiously before unleashing a flurry of strokes that left England’s bowlers clueless. He reached his half-century in just 30 balls, dispatching the English bowlers all around the park. Even as the pitch started offering turn, Rohit took on spinners Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone, displaying his impeccable footwork.

His 76-ball century was his second-fastest in ODIs, only behind his 63-ball ton against Afghanistan in 2023. This century was also his 32nd in ODIs, making him India’s third-highest century maker in the format, behind Sachin Tendulkar (49) and Virat Kohli (46).

With this win, Rohit secured his 36th ODI victory as captain, tying with West Indies legend Viv Richards for the third-most wins as an ODI skipper. He now stands just behind Ricky Ponting, Clive Lloyd, and Virat Kohli (all with 39 wins each).

---

A Historic Feat in Power-Hitting

Rohit Sharma’s incredible stroke play saw him surpass Chris Gayle’s record (331 sixes) for the most sixes in men’s ODIs. With 338 sixes, he is now second on the all-time list, closing in on Shahid Afridi’s 351 sixes.

His 49th international century also places him among India’s greatest batters, only behind Sachin Tendulkar (100 centuries) and Virat Kohli (81 centuries) across formats.

---

What’s Next?

India will look to complete a 3-0 series whitewash when they take on England in the third and final ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. Meanwhile, England will be desperate to salvage some pride in the dead rubber.

With Rohit Sharma rediscovering his best form, India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 seem to be on the right track.