On February 20th, 2025, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma etched his name even deeper into the annals of ODI cricket history. During a thrilling Champions Trophy clash against Bangladesh, he reached the monumental milestone of 11,000 ODI runs, securing his place as the second-fastest batsman ever to achieve this incredible feat.
A Stunning Ascent to 11,000
Sharma’s journey to this landmark was nothing short of spectacular. He blazed past the 11,000-run mark in a mere 261 innings, a remarkable achievement that outpaces even the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who reached the same milestone in 276 innings. While Virat Kohli still holds the record (222 innings), Sharma’s performance is a testament to his exceptional batting consistency and explosive power hitting.
The Bangladesh match itself saw Sharma in top form, effortlessly dispatching the bowling attack with a flurry of boundaries. This innings was just another chapter in his already illustrious career.
Joining Cricket’s Elite
Sharma’s achievement places him in the pantheon of Indian ODI greats, alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and Virat Kohli. Globally, he joins an exclusive club of only six other batsmen who have conquered this 11,000-run summit: Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara, Sanath Jayasuriya, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Mahela Jayawardene.
Beyond the Milestone: A Legacy in the Making
Sharma’s ODI record extends far beyond this impressive milestone. His career average hovers near 50, a testament to his remarkable consistency across various conditions and opponents. His impressive tally includes 32 centuries and 52 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to consistently deliver match-winning performances. Moreover, his power-hitting prowess is evident in his position as the second highest six-hitter of all time (338 sixes), trailing only Shahid Afridi.
A Champion’s Trophy to Remember?
Sharma’s explosive performance against Bangladesh served as an electrifying start to what promises to be a memorable Champions Trophy campaign for India. His accomplishment is not only a source of immense pride for Indian cricket fans but also an inspiring example for aspiring cricketers worldwide.
The Future Beckons
As Sharma continues his journey in the Champions Trophy and beyond, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates his future contributions. His ability to perform under pressure, consistently deliver match-winning knocks, and inspire his teammates sets a benchmark for excellence in international cricket. The coming years promise to be even more exciting as we witness the continued evolution of this modern batting maestro.
