Rohit Sharma’s transformation into one of the greatest opening batsmen in One Day Internationals (ODIs) is a tale of perseverance and brilliance. Since being promoted to the top of the order in 2013, Rohit has redefined ODI batting with his effortless stroke play, hunger for big runs, and ability to dominate bowling attacks across conditions. His numbers as an opener are simply phenomenal, making him one of the most feared batsmen in world cricket.
Before 2013, Rohit was an inconsistent middle-order batsman who showed glimpses of brilliance but struggled to cement his place in India’s ODI side. Everything changed when then-captain MS Dhoni decided to push him to the opening slot. This move turned out to be a masterstroke, as Rohit embraced the role with great success. Since then, he has piled up runs at an astonishing rate, cementing his place as one of the best openers of all time.
One of Rohit’s standout qualities as an opener is his ability to convert starts into daddy hundreds. He holds the record for the most double centuries in ODIs, a feat no other batsman has achieved even twice. His highest score of 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014 remains the highest individual score in ODI history, a testament to his ability to bat long and punish bowlers. His other double centuries—209 against Australia in 2013 and 208* against Sri Lanka in 2017—further showcase his appetite for big scores.
Rohit’s performances in ICC tournaments have also been nothing short of spectacular. In the 2019 World Cup, he became the first batsman in history to score five centuries in a single edition of the tournament. His 648 runs in the tournament played a key role in India’s campaign and solidified his status as one of the best ODI batsmen of his era.
Apart from his big scores, Rohit’s consistency is remarkable. His average as an opener is well above 50, a benchmark of elite batsmanship in ODIs. His ability to accelerate after getting set, coupled with his impeccable timing and shot selection, makes him a nightmare for opposition bowlers. Whether it’s playing the anchor role or shifting gears to dominate an attack, Rohit has mastered the art of ODI batting.
As captain of the Indian team, Rohit continues to lead from the front with his batting prowess. With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, India will rely heavily on his experience and ability to deliver on the big stage. His journey from a struggling middle-order batsman to an ODI great is an inspiring story of belief, adaptation, and excellence. Rohit Sharma’s numbers as an opener are not just phenomenal—they are historic.