Rohit Sharma’s name was etched into cricketing history once again under the Sydney sun. In a masterclass of elegant strokeplay and steely resolve, the Indian captain slammed an unbeaten 121 to lead his team to a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, thereby avoiding a series whitewash and, more importantly, rewriting the record books .
Rohit Sharma’s Record-Breaking Knock
This magnificent innings was no ordinary century. It was Rohit Sharma’s 33rd in ODI cricket, a landmark achievement that saw him surpass Virat Kohli’s tally of eight centuries against Australia. In doing so, he now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who also has nine ODI centuries to his name against the Aussies .
At 38 years and 178 days old, Sharma’s feat is a testament to his enduring class and ability to perform on the biggest stages . His 121 came off just 125 balls, a blend of calculated aggression and sublime timing that left the Australian bowlers grasping at thin air.
A Team Effort Sets the Stage
While Sharma’s bat stole the headlines, the foundation for this historic win was laid by a stellar bowling performance. The Indian bowlers restricted the hosts to a manageable total, giving the chase a perfect platform. This collective effort ensured that the stage was set for their captain to deliver a performance for the ages.
Historic Milestones in the Sydney Sky
The Sydney Cricket Ground has long been a happy hunting ground for Sharma, and this innings only added to his legacy at the venue. This century also marked his 50th in international cricket overall, a staggering number that places him among the game’s all-time greats .
Here’s a quick look at the elite company Sharma now keeps:
| Player | ODI Centuries vs Australia | ODI Innings vs Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 9 | 49 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 9 | 48 |
| Virat Kohli | 8 | 32 |
Sharma has now scored his nine centuries in 49 innings, a remarkable conversion rate that highlights his consistency against a top-tier bowling attack .
What This Means for Indian Cricket
This victory is more than just a series-saver; it’s a powerful statement of intent. With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, Sharma’s form is a massive boost for the Indian team. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a healthy strike rate provides the perfect template for the team’s batting approach in high-stakes tournaments.
For fans, it’s a nostalgic yet exciting moment, seeing two generations of Indian cricket—represented by Tendulkar’s legacy and Sharma’s present-day brilliance—converge in a single, historic statistic .