Indian opener Rohit Sharma added another major milestone to his career during the first ODI against South Africa on Sunday (November 30) at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. With one clean swing, he became the batter with the most sixes in One-Day Internationals, surpassing a long-standing record.
Rohit’s historic moment came against young South African pacer Marco Jansen. Jansen bowled a short ball angling into Rohit, and the Indian captain read it perfectly. Timing it sweetly, he rose with the bounce, turned his body, and pulled it over long leg for his 352nd ODI six.
Rohit Sharma Tops the ODI Six-Hitting Charts
That powerful hit pushed Rohit Sharma past former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who held the record for years. With 352 sixes to his name, Rohit now stands at No. 1, while Afridi moves to second with 351.
West Indies great Chris Gayle follows in third place, ahead of Sri Lankan icon Sanath Jayasuriya and India’s own MS Dhoni. Rohit’s new record is not just a statistic but a reminder of his unmatched timing, technique, and consistency over the years.
Most Sixes in ODI History
352* – Rohit Sharma
351 – Shahid Afridi
331 – Chris Gayle
270 – Sanath Jayasuriya
229 – MS Dhoni
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Jansen Strikes Back, Ends Rohit’s Strong Innings
Right after the milestone, Rohit’s innings came to an end when Marco Jansen trapped him LBW. The bowler delivered a back-of-a-length ball that didn’t rise as Rohit expected. As he tried to pull it, the ball struck him on the back of the thigh in line with the stumps, leaving the umpire with an easy decision.
Before walking back, Rohit exchanged a quick word with Virat Kohli but chose not to review. He finished with a well-played 57 off 51 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes. His dismissal also broke a strong 136-run stand for the second wicket in Ranchi.
India Lose Quick Wickets After a Strong Start
Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad were given another chance in the ODI setup, but both failed to make an impact. After Rohit and Gaikwad fell in quick succession, India found themselves at 193/3 in the first match against South Africa.
Rohit Sharma Impresses with New Athletic Physique
Along with his batting, Rohit Sharma also surprised fans with his noticeably fitter and leaner appearance. He looked quicker across the field, sharper between the wickets, and more energetic in general. His reflexes and movement suggested a renewed focus on fitness.
This transformation comes at an important moment in his career, highlighting his dedication to staying at the top as India begins its long preparation for the ICC World Cup 2027. Remarkably, this was Rohit’s third straight ODI fifty since announcing his retirement from Test cricket earlier this year.
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