Rohit Sharma Breaks Chris Gayle's Record To Become Greatest Six-Hitter Vs SENA Nations

Rohit Sharma [Source: AFP]

India star batter Rohit Sharma etched his name into record books once again on Sunday (July 19) by surpassing the legendary Chris Gayle during the third and final ODI against England at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. 

The experienced opener achieved multiple milestones while leading India's chase of a daunting 388-run target in IND vs ENG series decider. Chasing the highest-ever ODI total at Lord's, India walked out under immense pressure. 

Notably, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a positive start, ensuring the scoreboard kept moving despite the challenging target. The opening pair looked fluent against the new ball, with Rohit playing some trademark attacking strokes to keep India's hopes alive.

Rohit Sharma Creates History At Lord's During IND vs ENG

During his innings, Rohit Sharma achieved an astonishing feat by overtaking West Indies great Chris Gayle for the most sixes in international cricket against SENA nations (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). 

Notably, the milestone came in the 11th over when Rohit smashed England all-rounder Sam Curran for a boundary and a towering six. The maximum took him past Gayle's long-standing record.

Most Sixes in International Cricket vs SENA Teams

• 343 – Rohit Sharma*
• 342 – Chris Gayle
• 179 – Virat Kohli
• 177 – MS Dhoni
• 176 – Shahid Afridi

Also Read: Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir Emotional As Rohit Sharma Watches On Lords’ Tribute

Rohit Sharma Becomes First Overseas Batter To Reach 1500 Runs In England

Apart from breaking Chris Gayle's record, Rohit Sharma also reached another significant milestone during the innings. 

Notably, the former Indian captain became the first overseas batter to score 1500 ODI runs in England. Needing just 35 runs before the start of the match, he reached the landmark in only 32 balls.

Furthermore, Rohit joined an elite list by completing 9000 international runs as an opener against SENA countries across all formats.

Adding to the intrigue, the third ODI attracted significant attention due to widespread speculation that it could be Rohit Sharma's final appearance in ODIs. However, it is important to note that BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed those reports and confirmed that the Lord's ODI is not Rohit Sharma's final ODI.

England Post Record Total At Lord's

Earlier in the day, England produced a batting masterclass to post a record-breaking total of 388 runs, the highest ODI team score at Lord's. 

Notably, Jacob Bethell narrowly missed out on a century after scoring a brilliant 91, while Ben Duckett stole the show with a magnificent 141. 

Joe Root continued his sensational form with another half-century, and Jos Buttler provided the finishing touches with a quickfire 41, helping England set India a mammoth target.

At the time of writing, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are batting confidently, giving India a steady start in the massive chase. India still requires 285 runs from 186 balls.

Follow IND vs ENG 3rd ODI Live Updates For Each And Every Detail Of The High-Octane Clash