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Amid Retirement Talks – Rohit Sharma Stakes Claim to No-1 ODI Ranking at 38 in ICC Rankings News24 –

Sports
By Correspondent


Rohit Sharma delivered a perfect ending to his Australian chapter with a sublime unbeaten century in the third ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday (October 25). The 38-year-old Indian opener crafted his 33rd ODI hundred, guiding India to a comfortable nine-wicket victory and helping his side avoid a series whitewash.

It was a classic Rohit Sharma innings calm, calculated, and commanding. With this century, Rohit not only sealed the win but also scripted history by climbing to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI Batting Rankings.

From No.3 to No.1 – Rohit’s Remarkable Rise

Before the series began, Rohit was placed third in the rankings with 745 rating points, behind Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran (764) and India’s young captain Shubman Gill (768). But a consistent series which saw him score 202 runs in three matches at an average of 101 and a strike rate of 85.59 propelled him back to the No.1 spot.

This achievement makes Rohit the oldest player, at 38, to hold the top spot in the ODI batting rankings, equalling Mohammad Nabi’s record as the oldest player to be ranked No.1 in any discipline of international cricket. Nabi had reached the summit of the ODI all-rounder rankings in February 2024.

Unsurprisingly, Rohit was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series, a fitting tribute to one of the modern greats of ODI cricket.

Experience Shines Through in Tough Conditions

In a series where batters struggled against the new ball and the Australian conditions tested every player’s technique, Rohit’s class stood out. He weathered the early movement, respected the bowlers when required, and then unleashed his trademark strokeplay once he was set.

Speaking after the game, Rohit reflected on the challenge of batting in Australian conditions and the satisfaction of contributing to the team’s win.

“You expect tough conditions in Australia. Quality bowlers. Gotta understand things and try your best,” Rohit said at the post-match presentation.
“Haven’t played for a long time, good prep. Slightly confident coming in. We couldn’t win the series – but we’ll still take a lot of positives. It’s a young side, and there will be a lot of learnings for them.”

A Leader’s Legacy and What’s Next

Though India lost the series 2–1, Rohit’s performance was a major positive. His ability to lead from the front, both as a senior player and mentor, was evident throughout the tour. The innings in Sydney was more than just a hundred, it was a reminder of why Rohit Sharma is regarded as one of the greatest ODI batters of his generation.

India now return home to prepare for a three-match ODI series against South Africa next month. With Rohit back at his fluent best and a young squad gaining valuable experience, the team will look to build momentum ahead of a busy season.

For now, though, the spotlight rightfully belongs to Rohit Sharma — a veteran who continues to redefine longevity and excellence in international cricket. His unbeaten century at the SCG wasn’t just a match-winning knock; it was a masterclass in timing, temperament, and the art of finishing in style.




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