Rohit Sharma registered another quick fifty to give India a sensational start while chasing a challenging total in the second ODI game against Sri Lanka on Sunday, August 4. The Indian captain scored 64 runs off just 44 balls and surpassed the legendary MS Dhoni in the most ODI runs for India’s record.
Heading into this match, the 37-year-old Indian opener needed just seven runs to surpass Dhoni’s tally of 10,773 runs. With his innings on Sunday, Rohit has now amassed 10,831 runs in 256 innings, moving him past Dhoni. Furthermore, Rohit needs only 59 more runs to surpass another cricketing legend, Rahul Dravid, in the list of Indian players with the most ODI runs. This achievement not only establishes Rohit Sharma as one of the most prolific batsmen in the history of Indian cricket but also brings him closer to the elite club of cricketing legends.
In the contemporary landscape of international cricket, Virat Kohli stands tall, having scored the most ODI runs among active cricketers globally. Kohli is on the cusp of another significant milestone, needing just 114 runs to complete 14,000 runs in ODIs. However, Kohli has encountered a lean patch in the current series, managing only 24 runs in the first ODI on Friday and falling cheaply for just 14 runs in the second match.
Earlier in the game, Sri Lanka managed to post a competitive total of 240 runs. It was a team effort as no individual player scored a fifty. Opener Avishka Fernando and spin all-rounder Kamindu Mendis led the charge for Sri Lanka, each contributing 40 runs. For India, Washington Sundar emerged as the standout bowler, taking three wickets for just 30 runs, showcasing his prowess with the ball and containing the Sri Lankan batsmen.
The Indian chase got off to a strong start, thanks to a solid partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. The duo added 97 runs for the opening wicket, laying a robust foundation for the team.
. However, Jeffrey Vandersay, making his return to the Sri Lankan lineup, had other plans. Vandersay dismissed Rohit in the 14th over, triggering a dramatic collapse in India’s innings. From a commanding position of 97/0, India plummeted to 123/4 within a span of just six overs, with Vandersay picking up all four wickets that fell. This remarkable performance by Vandersay brought Sri Lanka right back into the game, defending a seemingly modest total at the R Premadasa Stadium.
This thrilling match has further intensified the ongoing series, with both teams displaying their prowess and resilience. For Rohit Sharma, this innings is a testament to his enduring class and ability to perform under pressure. Surpassing the tallies of MS Dhoni and nearing Rahul Dravid’s records places Rohit in the pantheon of Indian cricket legends.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the two stalwarts of Indian cricket, who continue to inspire millions with their performances. For Kohli, the upcoming matches present an opportunity to break out of his current slump and reach the significant milestone of 14,000 ODI runs.
Sri Lanka’s performance, led by Vandersay’s exceptional bowling, has also garnered praise. Their ability to defend a sub-250 total against a formidable Indian batting lineup speaks volumes about their grit and determination. The contribution of players like Avishka Fernando and Kamindu Mendis at the top and the disciplined bowling effort, especially under pressure, highlights the team’s collective strength.
This series is proving to be a thrilling contest, with both teams showcasing moments of brilliance. As the cricketing world watches on, the battle between these two cricketing nations continues to provide captivating drama and outstanding individual performances. With records on the line and personal milestones within reach, the remaining matches promise even more excitement and unforgettable moments.
