• Home
  • Match Hub
  • Hitman Rohit Sharma Surpasses Universe Boss Gayle In Big Hitting Record

'Hitman' Rohit Sharma Surpasses 'Universe Boss' Gayle In Big Hitting Record

Soumyajit Dutta

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill (Source: AP Photos)Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill (Source: AP Photos)

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma etched his name in the record books once again, surpassing Chris Gayle to become the batter with the most sixes in ICC ODI tournaments. Sharma achieved this feat during the ongoing Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia in Dubai. 

In pursuit of a challenging 265-run target set by Australia, Rohit Sharma dispatched a Nathan Ellis delivery over the ropes to record his 65th six in ICC ODI tournaments, edging past Gayle's tally of 64.

Rohit Looks In Good Touch!

Rohit's remarkable achievement was a testament to his explosive form and ability to dominate bowlers with ease. Known for his effortless six-hitting, the 'Hitman' has been in stellar touch, showcasing his power-hitting skills. 

His aggressive approach at the top of the order has been instrumental for India in crucial games, helping them maintain a strong start in their run-chase against the Aussies.

The Indian captain's innings, however, was not without drama. Rohit, who was batting on 16 off 17 balls at the time of writing, survived two scares early in his innings. Marnus Labuschagne dropped a tough catch, with Cooper Connolly dropping a sitter earlier, allowing Rohit to continue his onslaught. 

India Starts Australia's Chase Shakily

Earlier, Australia posted a competitive 264 all out in 49.3 overs after opting to bat first. Steve Smith led the charge with a composed 73 off 96 balls, supported by Alex Carey's brisk 61 off 57 deliveries. For India, Mohammed Shami was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 48 runs. 

Ravindra Jadeja's disciplined bowling earned him two crucial wickets, including the dismissal of Marnus Labuschagne for 29. Varun Chakravarthy also chipped in with two wickets, helping India restrict Australia to a manageable total.

At the time of writing, India is battling after Gill's dismissal with Virta Kohli and Rohit Sharma at the crease and the Men in Blue will aim to build a substantial partnership to ease the pressure in the powerplay and inch closer to a place in the Champions Trophy final.