OTD in 2023: Rohit Sharma surpasses Sachin to become 2nd fastest to 10,000 runs

On This Day (OTD) in 2023, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma achieved a significant milestone during the Asia Cup by becoming the second-fastest player in cricket history to score 10,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). This monumental achievement took place in a Super Four match against Sri Lanka, where Rohit Sharma’s brilliant batting display allowed him to surpass the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and position himself just behind his teammate, Virat Kohli, in the record books.

A Remarkable Journey to 10,000 Runs

Rohit Sharma reached the 10,000-run mark in ODIs in just his 241st innings, showcasing his consistency and dominance in the limited-overs format over the years. This achievement is not just a testament to his incredible skill and perseverance but also his ability to adapt and excel in various cricketing conditions around the world. Rohit’s journey to this milestone is even more significant because it took him fewer innings than Tendulkar, who reached the 10,000-run mark in 259 innings. Virat Kohli remains the fastest to achieve this milestone, having done so in just 205 innings.

Rohit’s milestone was celebrated not only by his teammates but also by cricket fans around the globe who have followed his career closely. The Indian captain’s ability to score runs freely and pace his innings with remarkable composure and control has been a hallmark of his career. This achievement further solidified his reputation as one of the greatest ODI batters in the history of the game.

The Rise of the ‘Hitman’

Often referred to as the ‘Hitman’ due to his explosive batting style, Rohit Sharma has been a cornerstone of India’s white-ball cricket for over a decade. Known for his powerful hitting ability, particularly when it comes to playing long innings, Rohit has developed a reputation as one of the most dependable and prolific run-scorers in world cricket. His two double centuries in ODIs, including a record 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014, are testament to his ability to dominate opposition bowlers.

Rohit’s transformation from a talented youngster to a modern-day great did not happen overnight. Initially, he struggled to find consistency in the Indian team, often being shuffled in the batting order. However, his career took a definitive turn when he was promoted to open the innings in 2013. Since then, there has been no looking back. His aggressive yet controlled style of batting has allowed him to anchor the innings and accelerate when required, making him one of the most formidable openers in ODI history.

Breaking Tendulkar’s Record

Surpassing Sachin Tendulkar in any cricketing statistic is no small feat. Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, set a benchmark in the game that many thought would stand the test of time. Rohit Sharma’s achievement of reaching 10,000 ODI runs faster than Tendulkar is not only a personal triumph but also a moment of great pride for Indian cricket. It symbolizes the evolution of Indian batsmanship in the modern era, where players are not just content with breaking records but are also setting new standards of excellence.

For Rohit, this milestone was achieved through a combination of hard work, focus, and relentless dedication to his craft. His ability to switch gears, from being a sheet anchor to a destructive finisher, has been key to his success. Moreover, his tactical acumen as a captain has only added to his value, making him one of the most respected figures in the sport today.

Consistency and Dominance in ODIs

What makes Rohit Sharma’s achievement even more commendable is his consistency across various formats and conditions. His journey to 10,000 runs includes numerous match-winning performances, both at home and overseas. Whether playing on the fast, bouncy tracks of Australia or the slow, turning pitches in the subcontinent, Rohit has demonstrated his adaptability and skill, becoming a nightmare for bowlers worldwide.

In addition to his technical prowess, Rohit’s mental toughness and calm demeanor under pressure have also played a crucial role in his success. He has often been the player to step up in critical situations, scoring big runs when his team needed him the most. His three double centuries in ODIs, including his highest score of 264, are a testament to his ability to convert starts into mammoth innings, a trait that distinguishes the greats from the good.

A Leader On and Off the Field

Beyond his batting exploits, Rohit Sharma has also emerged as a strong leader for Team India. Taking over the captaincy role in limited-overs cricket, he has led India with composure and confidence, often making bold decisions on the field. Under his captaincy, India has seen significant success, including winning the Asia Cup and reaching the semifinals of the ICC Cricket World Cup.

Rohit’s leadership style is characterized by his calm demeanor and tactical acumen. He has been praised for his ability to read the game and make crucial decisions at key moments. His rapport with younger players and his emphasis on team unity have helped foster a positive environment within the squad.

The Milestone Match: Super Four Showdown Against Sri Lanka

Rohit’s historic moment came during a crucial Super Four match against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023. Walking in as an opener, Rohit looked determined from the first ball. He played with poise and purpose, rotating the strike efficiently and punishing the bad deliveries. As he inched closer to the 10,000-run mark, the anticipation in the stadium grew, and every run was cheered with increasing enthusiasm.

Rohit reached the milestone with a signature flick off his pads for a boundary, a shot that has brought him so many runs over the years. The crowd erupted in applause, and his teammates stood up to acknowledge his achievement. It was a moment that encapsulated the hard work, dedication, and passion that have defined his career. Rohit acknowledged the crowd with a humble wave of his bat, his expression reflecting both joy and gratitude.

Reactions from the Cricketing World

The cricketing world was quick to recognize Rohit Sharma’s achievement. Former players, experts, and fans took to social media to congratulate him. Sachin Tendulkar himself praised Rohit, stating, “Congratulations to Rohit on this amazing achievement. It’s been wonderful watching his journey, and I wish him many more runs ahead.”

Virat Kohli, the fastest to 10,000 ODI runs, also extended his congratulations, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect between the two batting stalwarts. “Well done, Rohit! Proud of you, brother,” Kohli tweeted. “You’ve been an inspiration to many, including myself. Keep shining.”

What Lies Ahead for Rohit Sharma?

As Rohit Sharma continues his journey in international cricket, the milestone of 10,000 runs is just one chapter in what has been an illustrious career. At 36, he remains a crucial part of India’s plans, especially with the ICC Cricket World Cup on the horizon. His experience and ability to handle pressure situations make him an indispensable asset for the Indian team.

Looking ahead, Rohit’s focus will likely remain on maintaining his fitness and form, ensuring he can continue contributing to India’s success on the world stage. With several years of cricket still ahead of him, there are few limits to what he might achieve next.

Rohit Sharma’s journey to 10,000 ODI runs has been marked by grit, grace, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Surpassing a legend like Sachin Tendulkar is no small feat, and doing so in fewer innings only adds to the significance of his achievement. As the cricketing world celebrates this milestone, one thing is clear: Rohit Sharma’s legacy in the sport is firmly established, and his contributions to Indian cricket will be remembered for generations to come.

Rohit Sharma has not only earned his place among the greats but continues to inspire millions with his performances, proving that hard work and determination can indeed lead to greatness.

ALSO READ : Top 5 lessons to learn from Virat Kohli, backed by examples from his career