Rohit Sharma’s T20I Triumph: Remembering the Historic 35-Ball Century

Image credit: BCCI

Rohit Sharma: The Limited-Overs Legend

Former India captain Rohit Sharma has firmly established himself as a giant in limited-overs cricket. His numerous records in ODI and T20I formats speak volumes, with his capacity for explosive performances unmatched in the sport.

Unmatched T20I Records

Rohit is the only player to score three double centuries in ODIs and shares the title for most centuries in T20Is. His remarkable ability to clear boundaries is exemplified by the fact that he holds the record for over 200 sixes in T20 matches. After leading India to the T20 World Cup title in 2024, he retired from the format with an impressive tally of 205 sixes across 151 innings.

A Triumphant Farewell

Teaming up with his longtime friend and fellow cricketer Virat Kohli, Rohit concluded his T20I career with a stunning total of 4,231 runs in 159 matches, including five centuries and 32 fifties. Their departure from the T20 realm coincided with the T20 World Cup victory, marking the end of an era.

December 22, 2017 — A Historic Performance

On this day in 2017, Rohit Sharma made headlines by scoring the joint-fastest T20I century in history—achieving 100 runs in just 35 balls against Sri Lanka in Indore. This monumental feat not only set a new record but also showcased Rohit’s unmatched batting prowess.

The Build-Up to the Record

In a remarkable white-ball series against Sri Lanka, Rohit had already made headlines with his third ODI double century before the T20 series began. His prolific run continued as he opened the T20I series modestly but quickly shifted gears to astound the audience in Indore.

A Relentless Assault on Sri Lankan Bowlers

After Sri Lanka opted to field first, Rohit and KL Rahul set the tone with a blistering start. Rohit reached his half-century in just 23 balls, featuring three sixes and seven fours. The opening partnership flourished, racing to 100 runs in just 52 balls, leading to a powerful team total of 260 runs.

A Record-Breaking Innings

Rohit’s record-breaking century culminated in a breathtaking performance: 118 runs off just 43 balls, including 10 sixes and 12 fours, boasting a remarkable strike rate of 274.4. His partnership with Rahul resulted in a staggering 165 runs in only 12.4 overs, propelling India to an imposing total.

Sri Lanka’s Struggle

Facing a monumental target of 261, Sri Lanka initially fought back with a promising partnership but ultimately crumbled under pressure, bowled out for just 172 runs. India’s spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav played crucial roles in dismantling the batting order, snatching quick wickets to secure a commanding victory.

Celebrating Rohit Sharma’s Legacy in T20Is

Rohit Sharma’s remarkable 35-ball century was the highlight of a stellar T20I career, culminating in a total of 4,231 runs at an average of 32.05 and a strike rate of 140.89. Although overtaken by Pakistan’s Babar Azam in recent years, Rohit’s achievements remain a benchmark for future players.

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