It was still festive in Barbados, the T20 World Cup 2024 trophy glittering in the Caribbean sun. Yet, amid the jubilant celebrations, two iconic figures dropped a bombshell. India’s victorious captain Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from T20 international cricket, following in the footsteps of his teammate Virat Kohli.
It was not just the end of an era; it was the end of a great T20 career. Rohit Sharma, the “Hitman”, was not just a prolific scorer; he was a master of the format. His stunning shots, audacious sixes and tactical acumen as captain made him a force to be reckoned with.
Records for the Ages
Sharma’s name is synonymous with T20 records. He holds the record for the most international sixes across all formats, a testament to his power-hitting prowess. He also boasts the record for the most sixes in World Cups, further solidifying his dominance in the biggest T20 stage. But perhaps his most awe-inspiring record is the highest individual score in an ODI – a staggering 264 runs – a feat that showcases his ability to decimate bowling attacks in any format.
A T20 Titan Departs
Rohit Sharma’s retirement statistics speak for themselves. He finishes as the highest run-scorer in T20I history, amassing a staggering 4231 runs in 159 matches at a healthy average of 32.05. His leadership qualities were equally impressive, leading India to their second T20 World Cup title in 2024.
A fitting farewell
There is a certain poetry to Rohit’s decision. Going out with a World Cup win, a trophy he wanted so much, is a fairytale ending. His explosive 92-run innings in the Super 8s against Australia was a masterclass in T20 batting, showcasing his strength and finesse.
Rohit Sharma Achievements
Highest run-scorer in T20I history (4231 runs in 159 matches)
Led India to their second T20 World Cup title in 2024
First player to win 50 T20I matches as captain
Scored the highest individual score in an ODI (264 runs)
Awards
ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year (2019)
Included in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year (multiple years)
Included in the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year (2021)
Arjuna Award (2015) – India’s second-highest sporting honor
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2020) – India’s highest sporting honor
Records
Most international sixes across all formats (612)
Highest individual score in an ODI (264 runs)
T20 World Cup 2024
The stage was set for a nail-biting finale at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. India, chasing their second T20 World Cup title, faced off against a determined South African team.
India emerged victorious by 7 runs, clinching their second T20 World Cup title and ending an 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.
Player of the Match: Virat Kohli for his crucial knock of 76 runs.
Player of the Tournament: Jasprit Bumrah for his consistent bowling throughout the World Cup.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli did indeed announce their retirement from T20 International cricket after India’s historic win at the T20 World Cup 2024
Thank You, Hitman
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