Rohit Sharma, Team India’s charismatic skipper, delivered a stunning century against England in the second ODI at Cuttack. This ton was not just another entry in his illustrious career but a strong statement that he is back in form. The century ended a 487-day drought in the format, marking his resurgence just in time for major upcoming tournaments. After struggling in recent series against New Zealand and Australia, Rohit Sharma was under scrutiny. However, his knock against England silenced critics, proving that class is permanent.
Rohit Sharma’s 32nd ODI Century: A Historic Moment
England, after winning the toss, opted to bat first and put up a total of 304 runs. Joe Root and Ben Duckett were the key contributors. However, India’s bowlers, led by Ravindra Jadeja, restricted the visitors effectively.
Rohit Sharma last scored an ODI century in 2023 against Afghanistan. Breaking this streak was significant, as it re-established his dominance. Rohit reached his fifty in just 30 deliveries, setting the tone for India’s chase. From the first over, Rohit was in attack mode, dealing in boundaries and sixes. He played his signature pull shots, flicks, and drives, showing complete control over his game.
During the match, Rohit surpassed Chris Gayle’s 331 sixes in ODIs, securing the second spot in the all-time list. With 334 sixes, he now trails only Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi, who has 371 maximums.
Reactions from Fans and Experts
Harsha Bhogle tweeted about how crucial this form could be for India in the Champions Trophy.
Harsha Bogle shared, “If Rohit Sharma can bat like this at the Champions Trophy, India become a different beast to play against. He has looked in command in this innings.”
If Rohit Sharma can bat like this at the Champions Trophy, India become a different beast to play against. He has looked in command in this innings.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 9, 2025
The way Rohit Sharma is batting it seems like he is lying on a swimming pool floater and swinging from there #INDvENG #TeamIndia #RohitSharma𓃵
— huzaifa laljiwala (@huzaifalalji) February 9, 2025
🚨HITMAN IS BACK 🚨
ROHIT SHARMA SCORED 50 FROM JUST 30 BALLS WITH 4 four and 4 sixes just in his own style 😉#CricketTwitter #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/Ah8lhSUGGO
— 100rav (@Saurav6394) February 9, 2025
Hitman on a mission! 🔥💪🏻#INDvENG #WhistlePodu 🦁💛
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 9, 2025
This frame defines the AURA of greatest batsman of whiteball cricket ROHIT SHARMA 🥶#INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/NraYeRYNLE
— U. (@264therapy) February 9, 2025
Rohit Sharma peaked at the right format at the right moment 🥵
This single knock increased India's CT hopes 2 folds. pic.twitter.com/fwguU912ZS
— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) February 9, 2025
No over the top celebration… no screaming…
A resilient ton and perhaps a very satisfying one for #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/BxaVhsEfiT— Vimal कुमार (@Vimalwa) February 9, 2025
England’s Performance in the Match
Despite fifties from Root and Duckett, England struggled to accelerate in the later overs. Their inability to counter-spin cost them crucial runs. Jadeja’s three-wicket haul (3/35) was instrumental in curbing England’s total. His wickets of Duckett and Root were game-changing.
With the Champions Trophy around the corner, Rohit’s return to form boosts India’s chances significantly. His experience at the top order is invaluable. Over the years, Rohit has evolved from a promising talent to an ODI giant.
His leadership has also added another dimension to his batting. Consistency will be key for Rohit going forward. With crucial series lined up, maintaining his peak form will be essential.
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