IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma equals the unique records of Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar with a century in Dharamsala Test

Indian captain Rohit Sharma made a triumphant return to form in the Test cricket, displaying his batting brilliance with a commanding century against England in Dharamsala on Day 2 of the fifth Test. Sharma’s 12th Test century and 7th against England highlighted his resilience and skill as a player. The illustrious inning was crafted amidst early challenges from the English bowlers, with Rohit showcasing his ability to weather the storm and dominate the proceedings.

Surviving James Anderson and Shoaib Bashir

Rohit’s journey to his century included a test of character against the formidable James Anderson and the persistent Shoaib Bashir. Surviving an early burst from Anderson and a close call against Bashir, Sharma exhibited his class and determination. Overcoming these challenges, he set the stage for a monumental innings in the picturesque setting of Dharamsala.

Rohit  Sharma’s century flair

As Rohit reached his century in the 58th over against Tom Hartley, the right-handed maestro left an indelible mark with his strokeplay. The innings was adorned with 13 boundaries and three majestic sixes, one of which was unleashed against Bashir earlier in the morning. Rohit’s century was not just about reaching a milestone but a spectacle of exquisite timing, power, and finesse. However, Rohit’s innings concluded at 103, courtesy of a dismissal by England’s Ben Stokes.

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Rohit and Sachin Tendulkar: A tale of post-30 centuries

Rohit has etched his name alongside the cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar by achieving a monumental record. With his recent century, Sharma not only showcased his batting brilliance but also equaled Tendulkar’s unique feat of scoring 35 centuries, most by an Indian, after the age of 30.

Tendulkar’s masterful post-30 Era: A run-scoring phenomenon

Tendulkar, after turning 30 in 2003, embarked on a remarkable journey in Test cricket, amassing 7110 runs in 95 matches at an impressive average of 49.72. His post-30 era witnessed the maestro scoring 35 centuries, with 20 of them coming in Test cricket. Tendulkar’s innings were a sublime blend of elegance and power, solidifying his reputation as a run-scoring phenomenon. In ODIs, he continued to mesmerize fans, accumulating 6207 runs in 149 matches at an average of 45.63, featuring 15 centuries.

Rohit’s centurion maestro act: 35 tons

Rohit, turning 30 in 2017, has since emerged as a centurion maestro, amassing an impressive tally of 35 centuries across all formats of the game. In the ODI arena, his post-30 journey has been a spectacle of sublime timing, power, and elegance. With 21 centuries in ODIs after turning 30, Rohit has accumulated 5578 runs, including a highest score of 208*. His prowess extends to the T20I format, where he has dazzled with five centuries and 2610 runs at a stellar strike rate of 146.21. The highlight of his T20I career post the 30th birthday is a highest score of 121*, showcasing his ability to dominate in the shortest format.

Success in Test cricket

Rohit’s success is not confined to limited-overs cricket, as he has made a significant impact in Test cricket as well. Since turning 30, Sharma has hit nine Test centuries, with the highest score being an impressive 212. This accomplishment underscores his adaptability and consistency across all formats of the game, cementing his status as a versatile and prolific batter for the Indian cricket team.

Rohit’s unique Test century record: Equaling Sunil Gavaskar’s feat

Rohit’s Test century against England not only matched Tendulkar’s post-30 record but also equaled Sunil Gavaskar‘s record of most Test centuries (4) by an Indian opener in Tests against England. This remarkable milestone was achieved in just his 13th Test against England, while Gavaskar accomplished the feat in his 23rd Test. Rohit’s prolific run-scoring ability and his unique place in Indian cricket history add a new chapter to the legacy of Indian openers against England.

Gavaskar’s opening saga: Rohit joins the 1000-run Club

Rohit also joined Gavaskar in the exclusive club of Indian openers who have surpassed 1000 runs against the English side. Gavaskar, a legendary opener, accumulated 2483 runs from 37 Tests at an average of 38.20.

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