In a performance that blended legacy, class, and record-breaking brilliance, Rohit Sharma etched his name deeper into cricketing history during India’s ODI series against Australia. His unbeaten 121 at the Sydney Cricket Ground wasn’t just a match-winning knock—it was the 50th international century of his career, placing him in an elite global club and making him only the third Indian ever to reach this landmark .
Rohit Sharma Joins the 50-Ton Club
With that elegant cover drive in the 35th over, Rohit Sharma joined Sachin Tendulkar (100) and Virat Kohli (80+) as the only Indians with 50+ international centuries across formats. At 37, in what many assumed was the twilight of his career, Sharma proved that greatness doesn’t retire on schedule—it redefines it.
Series-Dominating Performance
Sharma didn’t just score a century—he owned the series. Amassing 202 runs in three matches at a staggering average of 101.00, he was deservedly named Player of the Series. His consistency under pressure, especially after India lost the first two games, showcased his leadership and resilience.
Rohit’s Record-Breaking Feats in Australia
The Sydney knock unlocked multiple milestones, many of them historic:
- Most ODI centuries by a visiting batter in Australia (4, surpassing AB de Villiers and David Warner)
- Only Indian with 3 ODI tons at the SCG
- Ninth-highest run-scorer for India in ODIs (surpassing MS Dhoni)
- Oldest Indian to score an ODI century in Australia (37 years, 28 days)
Why This Century Felt Different
Unlike his explosive innings of the past, this 121* was built on patience, precision, and purpose. He rotated strike intelligently, punished only the bad balls, and anchored the chase with Virat Kohli in a partnership that felt both tactical and emotional. It wasn’t just about runs—it was about legacy, timing, and sending a message: “I’m still here.”
Where Rohit Stands Among Global Greats
| Player | International Centuries | Format Breakdown (Tests/ODIs/T20Is) |
|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 100 | 51 / 49 / 0 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 80+ | 29 / 50+ / 1 |
| Rohit Sharma (IND) | 50 | 10 / 33 / 7 |
| Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 63 | 38 / 25 / 0 |
What’s Next for the Hitman?
With the Champions Trophy 2025 and the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, Sharma’s form couldn’t come at a better time. His ability to perform in high-stakes overseas conditions makes him invaluable—not just as a batter, but as a mentor to India’s next-gen stars. And if Sydney was any indication, the Hitman still has plenty of fire left.
Sources
Times of India: Rohit Sharma breaks multiple records in Australia – Full list