In a historic moment for Indian cricket, veteran batter Rohit Sharma etched his name into the record books during the first One Day International against New Zealand. Playing at the Barabati Stadium, Rohit surpassed the iconic West Indies batsman Chris Gayle to become the opener with the most sixes in the history of ODI cricket.
A Milestone Innings Against the Kiwis
The record-breaking feat occurred while India was chasing a target of 301 runs set by New Zealand. Opening the innings alongside captain Shubman Gill, the Indian team had a cautious start. Rohit found his rhythm in the sixth over, launching his first maximum off the bowling of Ben Sears. He followed it up in the very next over by powerfully dispatching a back-of-a-length delivery from Kyle Jamieson into the stands.
That second six was particularly significant as it took Rohit Sharma's tally to 650 sixes in international cricket across all formats, making him the first player ever to reach that monumental figure. The moment was met with roaring applause from the spectators in Cuttack and sparked celebrations across social media platforms.
Breaking the 'Universe Boss' Record
Although his knock was cut short at 29 balls for 26 runs, including three fours and the two crucial sixes, it was enough to secure a major personal landmark. With that shot off Jamieson, Rohit took his count of sixes as an opener in ODI cricket to 329, moving one ahead of the 'Universe Boss', Chris Gayle, who had 328. This achievement adds to another record Rohit claimed last year when he went past Pakistan's Shahid Afridi for the most sixes in ODI cricket overall.
Rohit's form has been exceptional, underscored by his current position as the number one batter in the ICC ODI rankings. Last year, he amassed 650 runs in just 14 ODI innings, with a highest score of 121 not out.
Match Context and Outcome
Earlier in the match, after winning the toss and electing to bowl, India saw New Zealand's openers, Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls, build a solid century partnership. The Indian bowlers staged a comeback, taking wickets at regular intervals to restrict the Kiwis to a total of 300 for 8 in their 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell playing a key anchoring role.
Rohit Sharma's latest record cements his legacy as one of the most destructive openers in the limited-overs format. His ability to clear the boundary with remarkable consistency continues to be a formidable asset for the Indian cricket team as they build momentum in the series.
