Visakhapatnam, Dec 6 (UNI) Rohit Sharma on Saturday became the fourth Indian cricketer to surpass the 20,000-run mark in men’s international cricket during India’s ongoing ODI against South Africa at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium.
He joins a rarefied group of batting legends that includes Sachin Tendulkar (34,357 runs), Virat Kohli (27,910 runs), and Rahul Dravid (24,208 runs).
Rohit reached the milestone with a single off a 87.9 kph delivery from South Africa’s left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. The ball, pitched on a good length and holding slightly, was punched elegantly to long-off, bringing up the landmark amid cheers from the spectators. His innings highlighted both his timing and power, further establishing him as one of the most prolific run-scorers in world cricket.
Known for his aggressive strokeplay, Rohit has also set a unique record for six-hitting in ODIs. He has struck 114 sixes off seamers using the hook and pull shots, significantly ahead of the next-best tally of 48 by Chris Gayle in the available ball-by-ball records.
Despite reaching the historic 20,000-run mark, Rohit could not convert his innings into a century. Maharaj eventually dismissed him, catching him at deep mid-wicket by
Mathew Breetzke for 75 runs off 73 balls, which included seven boundaries and three sixes. Rohit’s dismissal was a critical breakthrough for South Africa, coming at a stage when India was seeking to consolidate its innings. Virat Kohli walked in next to steady the innings for India.
Rohit’s career, spanning more than 15 years, has seen numerous records, including being the only player to score multiple double centuries in ODIs, and his tally of sixes off seamers highlights his extraordinary ability to dominate top-class bowling attacks.
This landmark also highlights the evolution of modern batting, where a mix of skill, power, and strategic shot selection is crucial. Rohit’s 20,000 runs are not just numbers but reflect his dedication, temperament, and unmatched consistency on the international stage.
