In a moment that etched his name even deeper into the annals of cricket history, Indian captain Rohit Sharma rewrote the record books by surpassing Pakistan’s legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi to become the batter with the most sixes in One Day International (ODI) cricket. The monumental achievement unfolded during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, electrifying fans across India and around the globe as Sharma showcased his trademark elegance and brute force.
The milestone arrived during India’s World Cup encounter against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. As Sharma unleashed a powerful pull shot that sailed over the deep mid-wicket boundary, he didn’t just add six runs to the scoreboard; he added a new chapter to his illustrious career, breaking a record that had stood for years. This particular six, his 352nd in ODIs, pushed him past Afridi’s formidable tally of 351 maximums, solidifying his status as one of the format’s most destructive and consistent hitters.
The Historic Knock and the Record Shattered
The match against Afghanistan on October 11, 2023, was not just about breaking a record; it was a masterclass in aggressive opening batting. Chasing a target of 273, Rohit Sharma unleashed an onslaught, reaching his century in a blistering 63 balls – the fastest by an Indian in World Cup history. His innings of 131 runs off just 84 deliveries was adorned with 16 fours and 5 sixes, each boundary a testament to his incredible form and intent. It was during this spectacular display that he sent the ball sailing over the ropes for the 352nd time in his ODI career, a moment that drew a thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the Delhi crowd.
Shahid Afridi, known affectionately as ‘Boom Boom’ for his explosive batting style, held the record for most ODI sixes for a significant period. His 351 sixes came in 398 matches over a career spanning two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the game. Rohit Sharma, in comparison, achieved this feat in fewer innings, highlighting his remarkable consistency and higher frequency of boundary-hitting. Afridi’s record was a benchmark for power-hitting, and for Sharma to surpass it speaks volumes of his unique blend of timing, power, and shot selection.
Rohit’s Journey to Six-Hitting Supremacy
Rohit Sharma’s journey to becoming the undisputed king of ODI sixes has been one of transformation and evolution. Debuting as a middle-order batsman, his career took a dramatic turn when he was promoted to open the innings in 2013. This strategic move unlocked his immense potential, allowing him more time at the crease to build his innings and unleash his repertoire of strokes. Since then, he has consistently been among the top run-scorers and boundary-hitters in ODI cricket.
What sets Rohit apart is his seemingly effortless ability to clear the ropes. Unlike many power-hitters who rely solely on brute strength, Sharma’s sixes are often a product of exquisite timing, a high backlift, and an uncanny ability to read the length of the ball early. Whether it’s the elegant pull shot, the authoritative hook, or the graceful lofted drive over extra cover, his sixes often look like extensions of conventional cricketing shots rather than mere slogging.
Cricket analysts and former players have often lauded his unique approach. “Rohit Sharma’s six-hitting isn’t just about power; it’s a testament to his immaculate timing and profound understanding of field placements,” remarked a prominent cricket commentator. “He doesn’t just smash; he caresses the ball over the boundary with an almost lazy elegance that is truly captivating to watch. It’s a skill few possess, and he has mastered it over the years.” This perspective underscores that his record is not merely a statistical anomaly but a reflection of a refined and highly effective batting technique.
Impact on Indian Cricket and Future Prospects
This record not only adds another feather to Rohit Sharma’s cap but also strengthens his legacy as one of India’s greatest limited-overs cricketers. As captain, leading from the front with such a significant individual achievement undoubtedly boosts team morale and confidence. His aggressive starts often set the tone for the Indian innings, putting opposition bowlers under immediate pressure and allowing subsequent batsmen more freedom to play their natural game.
The achievement further cements his position among the pantheon of cricketing legends. With multiple double centuries in ODIs and numerous records to his name, Rohit Sharma continues to redefine what is possible in white-ball cricket. For Indian fans, his six-hitting prowess is a source of immense joy and excitement, a characteristic feature of his batting that consistently turns games on their head. As he continues his career, the question isn’t if he will add more to his tally, but how far he will push this extraordinary record, inspiring a new generation of cricketers to aim for the skies.
Rohit Sharma’s surpassing of Shahid Afridi’s six-hitting record is more than just a statistic; it’s a celebration of exceptional talent, relentless dedication, and the sheer spectacle of ODI cricket. It highlights a career defined by monumental achievements and a batting style that has captivated millions.
