New Delhi: A sight that was common over the past few years is no longer visible Rohit Sharma is no longer the captain of the Indian cricket team. From the World Test Championship to the World Cup and Champions Trophy, his calm leadership was always commendable. But after his retirement from T20s and Tests, discussions began about his captaincy in the 2027 World Cup. The BCCI, keeping the future in mind, deemed it appropriate to hand over the reins to a younger captain. In this sequence, Shubman Gill was made the ODI captain before the Australia tour, marking the end of Rohit Sharma’s chapter as captain.
Rohit’s Leadership Still Alive
Although he is no longer the captain, Rohit Sharma’s leadership qualities remain evident. This was clearly visible in the 33rd over of the second India vs Australia ODI. When Washington Sundar was struggling against left-handed batsman Cooper Connolly, Rohit went to him and offered guidance. Sundar listened attentively to his advice.
Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron said, “For an off-spinner, it’s important to turn the ball away from the left-handed batsman and bowl a little slower. Usually, captains just say, ‘Let the batsman hit.’”
A New Chapter in ODI Run Records
Rohit Sharma has surpassed former captain Sourav Ganguly to become India’s third-highest run-scorer in ODIs. After scoring only one run in the first ODI in Perth, he displayed a balanced game in the second ODI. Instead of being aggressive in the powerplay, he gradually built his innings and then accelerated.
73-Run Innings and Highlights
Rohit scored 73 runs off 97 balls, including seven fours and two sixes. His strike rate was 75.26. The highlights included two powerful pull shots that sailed into the stands off Mitchell Owen’s bowling.
Rohit Sharma’s Career Statistics and Rankings
In 275 ODIs and 267 innings, Rohit has scored 11,249 runs at an average of 48.69, with 32 centuries and 59 half-centuries. He has surpassed Sourav Ganguly. Sachin Tendulkar is at the top (18,426 runs), followed by Virat Kohli (14,181 runs).
Story Highlights
- Rohit Sharma is no longer the captain of India, but his leadership qualities remain evident.
- He scored 73 runs in the second ODI, giving the team a strong start.
- He surpassed Sourav Ganguly to become the third-highest ODI run-scorer for India.
- Rohit has had a stellar career with 32 centuries and 59 half-centuries in 275 ODIs.