Today, Rohit Sharma is celebrated as one of the most successful batters in the history of one-day international (ODI) cricket. Affectionately known as ‘The Hitman,’ he holds the unique distinction of being the only batter to score three double centuries in ODIs. Across 265 matches, Rohit has accumulated 10,866 runs at an impressive average of 49.16, with 31 centuries and 57 half-centuries.
However, his rise to ODI greatness was not instantaneous. Between his international debut in June 2007 and the end of 2012, Rohit played 86 ODIs, managing only 1,978 runs at an underwhelming average of 30.43, with just two centuries to his name. This period of struggle left him searching for answers and ways to establish consistency in the format.
In an interview with the Times of India in October 2012, Rohit candidly reflected on his struggles in ODIs. Despite his success in Twenty20 cricket, the young batter admitted that he had yet to find his groove in the one-day format. He shared:
“Yes, I enjoy my stints in Twenty20. I sincerely hope I can adapt this to one-day cricket too and do what I manage to do in T20. I have succeeded in this format regardless of conditions, batting order, and any other factors. I hope it rubs off on other formats too. I have realized that something is missing when I am playing ODIs, but I don’t know what. I am trying to figure out what is this missing link.”
When asked if he believed there was a flaw in his approach to one-day cricket, Rohit offered a thoughtful response:
“I’ve really not thought about it. I go with the same approach in all formats. There are aspects to my batting that don’t necessarily have to change just because I’m playing a different format. That’s why I said, I really need to figure out what it is.”
While his early struggles in ODIs were apparent, Rohit’s prowess in T20 internationals (T20Is) was clear from the start. He made his T20I debut in the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa, playing crucial innings that helped India lift the trophy.
The Turning Point: Opening the Innings in ODIs
The real turning point in Rohit Sharma’s ODI career came in 2013 when he was promoted to open the innings. This change proved to be a game-changer, and Rohit’s performances skyrocketed. Since taking on the opener’s role, Rohit has transformed into a completely different player, amassing 8,888 runs in 179 matches at an extraordinary average of 56.97. In this period, he notched up 29 centuries, showcasing his dominance at the top of the order.
His partnership with fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan also flourished. The right-left duo became one of India’s most successful opening combinations in ODI history. Together, they opened the batting in 115 innings for India, scoring 5,148 runs at an average of 45.55. Their partnership produced 18 century stands and 15 fifty-run partnerships, making them one of the most consistent and feared opening pairs in world cricket.
A Journey of Patience and Self-Realization
Rohit Sharma’s journey from a struggling middle-order batter to a world-class ODI opener is a testament to his perseverance and self-awareness. His ability to adapt, figure out the missing link, and evolve as a player has not only redefined his career but also contributed significantly to India’s success in limited-overs cricket.
Today, Rohit stands as one of the most respected figures in world cricket, a player who overcame early struggles and uncertainty to leave an indelible mark on the game.