At 38, Rohit Sharma has scripted yet another golden chapter in his illustrious career, becoming the oldest Indian batsman ever to top the ICC ODI batting rankings. It’s a feat that speaks volumes about his consistency, adaptability, and sheer love for the game, achieved nearly two decades after making his international debut.
Rohit’s rise to No. 1 came on the back of a commanding performance in the recent ODI series against Australia, where he amassed runs with characteristic ease and authority. His unbeaten hundred at Sydney and two other fluent knocks propelled him past younger contemporaries and reminded the cricketing world why he remains one of the finest limited-overs batsmen of the modern era. This was not merely a statistical jump — it was a statement of intent from a player who has defied time and expectation.
The journey to this milestone has been anything but easy. Since his debut in 2007, Rohit has evolved from a middle-order talent into a world-class opener. His transition, sparked in 2013 when he was promoted to the top of the order, changed the trajectory of his career. From then on, records tumbled: three ODI double centuries, the highest individual score of 264, and numerous match-winning knocks in pressure situations. Yet, the No. 1 spot in ICC’s ODI rankings had always eluded him — until now.
What makes this achievement remarkable is the timing. Most cricketers at 38 are either retired or winding down. Rohit, instead, is peaking again. His game has matured; he conserves energy smartly, picks his moments, and still punishes bowlers with the same effortless elegance that defined his earlier years. This version of Rohit Sharma blends experience with precision — a player who understands his body, his game, and his responsibilities better than ever before.
His ascent also marks a symbolic victory for longevity in international cricket. In an era dominated by emerging young stars and fast-paced formats, Rohit’s success proves that age and experience still hold immense value. It’s a testament to his fitness regimen, mental resilience, and ability to adapt to changing demands of the game. Even as new-generation players like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal rise, Rohit’s presence provides a sense of balance and assurance — the calm in India’s top order.
This milestone also offers a broader lesson for Indian cricket. Rohit’s consistency ensures stability amid transition, as India continues to experiment with combinations ahead of future ICC events. His leadership, batting acumen, and poise remain crucial assets in a team filled with evolving talent.
Ultimately, this moment belongs to Rohit Sharma — the veteran who continues to redefine what’s possible for players in their late thirties. Becoming the oldest Indian to reach No. 1 in ODI batting rankings is not just a personal triumph but a message to every professional athlete: excellence has no expiry date. Longevity, when paired with hunger and discipline, can still conquer the peak.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025