On Thursday, India’s Rohit Sharma became the man with the most all-time sixes in men’s one-day internationals. He accomplished this amazing milestone while playing a heated match against South Africa. Leave it to Ms. Sharma to break Shahid Afridi’s long-held record of 351 sixes with a single innings of pyrotechnics. His phenomenal performance inspired his team to a stunning 17-run victory at the legendary Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Now Sharma holds the record of most number of sixes in international cricket (across all three formats). He currently has hit an astonishing 642 sixes to date. He hit three sixes in this clash, bringing his ODI six count to 352. He went on to be eventually dismissed for an aggressive 57 runs off just 51 balls. His innings were characterized by several key partnerships that laid the foundation for a significant target to be set for South Africa.
The match-winning Indian innings was powered by a magnificent Virat Kohli, who hit a record-extending 52nd ODI century. Kohli’s measured innings of 135 off 120 balls helped set up India’s imposing 349-8. He put together an invaluable second-wicket stand of 136 runs with Sharma. This powerful partnership provided a full-flavored base for the team’s runs.
KL Rahul further complemented him with a calm knock of 60 runs off 56 balls. His as well as Kohli’s and Sharma’s efforts helped India to a challenging score.
In defense, South Africa had a tough assignment but fought valiantly. Matthew Breetzke was the chief architect with an assured batting display, making 72 off 80 balls. Marco Jansen helped inject some late drama into the chase, striking 70 off only 39 balls. Unfortunately for them though, South Africa was bowled out for 332, 17 runs short.
Kuldeep Yadav was one of India’s stars of the tournament. He chipped in with the ball as well, taking four wickets for 68 runs, keeping key pressure on the South African batting lineup. Not only did his performance help secure the win, his stellar performance with the ball showcased India’s bowling strength during crucial moments.
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