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December 23, 2024
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On November 13, 2014, at the inconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, cricket witnessed one of its most remarkable innings when Rohti Sharma, often referred to as the ‘Hitman’, smashed an astonishing 264 runs against Sri Lanka. This innings not only redefined the boundaries of what was achievable in One Day International (ODI) cricket but also etched Sharma’s name in cricketing lore as one of the finest batsmen of his era.
Rohit Sharma’s journey to this monumental innings was not devoid of challenges. Having been sidelined for nearly 10 weeks due to a finger injury sustained during a match against England, there were
murmurs about his place in the team, especially his role as an opener. However, Sharma, known for his elegant stroke play and ability to dominate any bowling attack, about to silence all doubters in a way
only he could.
The match against Sri Lanka was the fouth in a five-match ODI series, with India already leading 3-0. Sharma started his innings cautiously, taking time to settle in, scoring his first fifty off 72 balls.
This was just the prelude to what was to come.
• First Fifty: 72 balls, establishing solid foundation.
• Second Fifty: 28 balls, the acceleration began.
• Third Fifty: 25 balls, Sharma was now in the zone.
• Fourth Fifty: 26 balls, boundaries flowed effortlessly.
• Fifth Fifty: A mere 15 balls, showcasing an explosive ending.
Sharma’s innings was a masterclass in batting. He hit 33 fours and 9 sixes, demonstrating his ability to score in all parts of the ground. His 264 runs came of 173 deliveries, with a strike rate that soared over 152, making him the first batsman to score over 250 in an ODI.
> Highest Individual Score in ODIs: Surpassing Virendra Sehwag’s 219, Sharma’s 264 became the highest individual score by an Indians in ODI cricket.
> Most Fours in an ODI Innings: His 33 fours set a new benchmark for the format.
> Double Centuries: Sharma became the first player to score two double centuries in ODIs, having previously scored 209 against Australia.
India posted a mammoth 404 for 5, thanks largely to Sharma’s heroics and a significant partnership with Virat Kohli. Sri Lanka, despite their efforts, could only muster 251, leading to a 153-run victory for India. This innings was not just about the numbers; it was about how Sharma played, with a blend of technical finesse, power, and an almost nonchalant ease that left spectators and cricket analysts alike in awe.
Rohit Sharma’s 264 has been celebrated for its audacity and brilliance. It wasn’t just a display of aggressive batting but a testament to Sharma’s capacity to adapt and dominate. The Innings redefined the expectations from an opener, showcasing that one could build an innings with patience and then unleash an unparalleled assault, all in the same match.
His performance on that day at Eden Gardens is frequently revisited in cricket discussions, not just for the records it set but for the artistry of the batting. It’s a benchmark for aspiring cricketers and a reminder of Sharma’s place among the cricketing greats.
The cricket community was unanimous in its praise. Virat Kohli, who witnessed the innings firsthand, famously remarked that he could tell his kids he was there when Sharma played that innings, suggesting its rarity and historic value. The innings has been described as a blend of Sachin Tendulkar’s finesse, Virendra Sehwag’s power, and Sharma’s own unique flair.