Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team’s captain, didn’t just play an innings in the second ODI against Australia in Adelaide on October 23, 2025—he etched his name into the history books with a performance for the ages. On a night that will be remembered by fans for years to come, Sharma collected not one, not two, but three monumental milestones, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
Rohit Sharma: India’s New No. 3 in ODI Runs
With a gritty knock of 73 runs off 97 balls, Rohit Sharma officially surpassed the legendary Sourav Ganguly to become India’s third-highest run-scorer in One Day Internationals. This achievement places him behind only the colossal figures of Sachin Tendulkar (18,426 runs) and Virat Kohli (over 13,800 runs) in the all-time Indian ODI charts [[14], [16]].
A Record-Breaking Opener
Beyond the overall tally, Sharma’s innings was historic for his role at the top of the order. He now holds the record for the most ODI runs ever scored by an Indian opener, a testament to his consistency and power at the crease over more than a decade of international cricket .
Making History Down Under
The most astonishing feat of the night, however, was his conquest on foreign soil. By reaching his half-century, Rohit Sharma became the first Asian cricketer and the first Indian to amass 1,000 ODI runs against Australia in matches played on Australian soil [[25], [27]]. This is a remarkable achievement given the historical difficulty Indian batters have faced in Australian conditions.
Rohit Sharma’s Milestones at a Glance
| Milestone | Previous Holder/Record | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Highest ODI Run-Scorer for India | Sourav Ganguly (11,221 runs) | Joined the elite club of Tendulkar & Kohli |
| Most ODI Runs as an Indian Opener | Previous Indian opener record | Cements his role as a premier opening batter |
| 1,000 ODI Runs vs AUS in Australia | No Asian had achieved this before | Historic first for an Asian player |
His innings in Adelaide, which included seven boundaries and two sixes, was more than just a personal triumph; it was a crucial contribution that helped set a competitive total for the Indian team .
The Road Ahead for the Hitman
At 38 years old, Rohit Sharma continues to defy age and expectations. His ability to perform on the biggest stages, especially in high-pressure series like the one against Australia, showcases his immense skill and mental fortitude. As he climbs the ladder of greats, fans can only wonder what other records the ‘Hitman’ has in his sights.