Jasveer Singh
Rohit Sharma Makes History: Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar in ODI Run-Getters List
Indian captain Rohit Sharma has achieved yet another milestone in his illustrious career. The dynamic opener has now entered the top 10 all-time run-getters list in One Day Internationals (ODIs), surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to become India’s second most successful opener in the format. This incredible feat solidifies Rohit’s position as one of the greatest batters in white-ball cricket history.
Rohit Sharma’s Phenomenal ODI Career
Rohit Sharma has been a vital cog in India’s batting lineup ever since he was promoted to open the innings in 2013. His consistency, adaptability, and ability to score big runs have made him one of the most feared openers in modern-day cricket. With multiple double centuries in ODIs, a record-breaking World Cup campaign, and numerous match-winning performances, Rohit has etched his name among cricket’s greats.
Breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s Record
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, held the record as India’s second-most successful ODI opener. However, with Rohit’s latest milestone, he has overtaken the ‘Little Master’ in terms of runs scored as an opener in ODIs. While Tendulkar’s contributions to Indian cricket remain unparalleled, Rohit’s ability to consistently score big hundreds has helped him rewrite history.
Rohit Sharma’s ODI Stats
As of now, Rohit Sharma has accumulated over 10,000 ODI runs, with a significant chunk of those coming as an opener. His average and strike rate as an opener are among the highest in world cricket, proving his dominance in the format. Some of his most remarkable ODI records include:
- Three double centuries in ODIs – the only player to achieve this feat.
- Highest individual score in ODIs (264 runs vs. Sri Lanka, 2014).
- Over 30 ODI centuries, making him one of the leading century-makers in the format.
- Most runs in a single World Cup edition (2019) – 648 runs with five centuries.
India’s Most Successful ODI Openers
With this achievement, Rohit Sharma now stands second only to Sourav Ganguly in the list of India’s most successful ODI openers. Ganguly, who was known for his aggressive yet elegant batting, scored over 11,000 runs in ODIs, making him India’s most prolific opener. Rohit, however, is well on his way to surpassing Ganguly’s record in the coming years.
Here’s a look at the top three Indian ODI openers:
- Sourav Ganguly – 11,221 runs
- Rohit Sharma – Over 10,000 runs (and counting)
- Sachin Tendulkar – 9,000+ runs as an opener
What Makes Rohit Sharma a Special Opener?
- Ability to Convert Starts into Big Scores: Unlike many openers who struggle to convert starts into big knocks, Rohit has a habit of playing long innings, often reaching the 150+ mark with ease.
- Elegant Yet Aggressive Stroke Play: He blends classical cricket shots with modern power-hitting, making him a nightmare for bowlers.
- Consistency in ICC Tournaments: Rohit has been India’s key performer in ICC tournaments, delivering match-winning knocks when it matters most.
- Adaptability Across Conditions: Whether playing in the subcontinent or overseas, Rohit has proven his ability to score runs on all types of pitches.
Reactions from the Cricketing World
Following his record-breaking feat, cricket legends and fans took to social media to congratulate Rohit Sharma. Former cricketers such as Virender Sehwag and VVS Laxman praised Rohit’s remarkable consistency, while fans hailed him as one of India’s greatest openers.
What’s Next for Rohit Sharma?
With the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, Rohit Sharma still has plenty of cricket left in him. If he continues at his current pace, he could very well become India’s most successful ODI opener ever, surpassing Sourav Ganguly in the coming years.
His next target will be breaking into the top five ODI run-getters of all time, a feat that seems well within his reach given his current form.
Final Thoughts
Rohit Sharma’s rise in ODI cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being a talented middle-order batsman to becoming one of the greatest openers in cricket history, his journey is an inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide. As he continues to break records and script new milestones, Indian cricket fans can only look forward to witnessing more Rohit Sharma masterclasses in the years to come.
With his ability to score big, perform under pressure, and lead from the front, Rohit Sharma has truly cemented his legacy as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time.
