In a thrilling encounter during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, India faced Afghanistan in the ninth match of the tournament. The match witnessed some incredible performances, especially from Indian opener and captain, Rohit Sharma, who left cricket fans around the world in awe with his astounding display of power-hitting and record-breaking feats.
The stage was set as Afghanistan won the toss and chose to bat first, setting a target of 273 runs for India. They reached a respectable total of 272/8 in their allotted 50 overs, with Hashmatullah Shahidi leading the charge with a well-fought 80 off 88 deliveries. His partnership with Azmatullah Omarzai, who contributed 62 runs off 69 balls, was crucial, as they added 121 runs together after Afghanistan had lost three early wickets.
Chasing 273, India’s opening pair of Rohit Sharma and young sensation Ishan Kishan took the field with determination. They were up against a challenging target, but they rose to the occasion with style. Ishan Kishan played a supporting role with his 47 runs off 47 deliveries, but the spotlight was firmly on Rohit Sharma, who displayed masterful batting prowess.
Rohit Sharma’s knock of 131 runs off just 84 balls was nothing short of spectacular. He struck 16 boundaries and cleared the boundary ropes five times. This innings was not just a match-winner but also a record-breaker. Let’s take a look at the records that Rohit Sharma shattered during his remarkable performance:
1. 7, Most hundreds in World Cup:
With this century, Rohit Sharma now holds the record for the most centuries in World Cup history, surpassing legends like Sachin Tendulkar (6) and Kumar Sangakkara (5).
2. 554, Most sixes in International cricket:
Rohit Sharma’s 131-run blitz helped him overtake Chris Gayle’s record of 553 international sixes. He now stands as the batsman with the most sixes in the history of international cricket with 554.
3. Fastest hundred by an Indian in World Cup history:
Rohit Sharma’s century was not just about hitting a hundred; it was the fastest ever by an Indian in the history of the World Cup, showcasing his ability to seize the initiative.
4. 3, Most hundreds in successful World Cup chases:
Rohit Sharma’s century contributed significantly to India’s successful chase, and he now holds the record for the most centuries in World Cup run-chases.
5. Most runs in first powerplay of a World Cup innings:
In the course of this incredible innings, Rohit Sharma came close to another record. He scored 76 runs within the first 10 overs of India’s innings, which was the second-highest in World Cup history since 2003, only behind Brendon McCullum’s blistering 77 against England in 2015.
While Rohit Sharma was the star of the show, his partner in the opening stand, Ishan Kishan, also played a crucial role by providing a strong foundation for the chase with a well-made 47. Virat Kohli (55 off 56) and Shreyas Iyer (25 off 23) ensured that India crossed the finishing line comfortably in just 35 overs, underlining India’s dominance in the match.
Rohit Sharma’s incredible performance in the match against Afghanistan showcased his class, power, and ability to break records under pressure. It was a historic day for him and a moment that will be remembered by cricket fans for years to come. As India continues its journey in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the captain’s form and the team’s spirit bode well for their chances in the tournament.
The New Clear Mind – a professional writer who’s got a passion for three things- Reading, Writing, & Cricket!
