Rohit Sharma created another unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket history by becoming the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at Lord’s. The Indian captain smashed a magnificent 138 off 110 balls in the third and final ODI against England, producing one of the finest innings ever played by an Indian at the famous venue.
Although India fell 27 runs short while chasing a huge target of 388, the Rohit Sharma Lord’s century will be remembered for years because of the records it broke and the surprising story behind the bat that powered the innings.
A Record-Breaking Knock at the Home of Cricket
Rohit played with complete control and aggression, striking 17 fours and five sixes during his brilliant innings. He kept India’s hopes alive throughout the chase with his elegant stroke play and fearless approach against England’s bowling attack.
Rohit Sharma’s historic ODI century saw him surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s previous highest ODI score by an Indian at Lord’s, which was 93. By reaching three figures, Rohit scored the first Indian ODI century at Lord’s, adding another remarkable achievement to his already outstanding career.
His innings also matched one of the most famous records at the venue by equalling Sir Viv Richards’ unbeaten 138 from the 1979 Cricket World Cup final, the highest ODI score by an overseas batter at Lord’s.
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The Bat That Made History
One of the most interesting parts of Rohit’s historic innings was the bat he used. Instead of using one of his own bats, Rohit chose an SS willow belonging to his longtime teammate Shardul Thakur.
During the run chase, Rohit reportedly felt that his own bats did not have the right balance and pickup. Having previously liked the feel of Shardul’s custom made SS bats, he decided to use one of them for the big match.
The decision proved to be a masterstroke.
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As Rohit celebrated his century with a sweep against Adil Rashid, fans noticed Shardul Thakur’s signature markings near the bottom of the bat as he raised it towards the dressing room.
Shardul Thakur Explains the Story
Speaking to The Indian Express, Shardul Thakur revealed how Rohit came to use his bat.
He explained that both players have shared a close bond since their Mumbai cricket days and have played together in domestic cricket, the Indian Premier League, and for India.
Shardul said Rohit had admired the pickup and balance of his custom SS bats made by bat manufacturer Jatin Sareen and had requested a couple for himself.
Shardul added that there was never any question of refusing Rohit’s request because of everything he has done for Indian cricket. He also expressed his happiness that Rohit scored such a memorable century at Lord’s with one of his bats.
More Records Added to Rohit’s Name
Rohit Sharma’s Lord’s century was filled with milestones beyond just becoming the first Indian ODI century at Lord’s.
It was Rohit’s eighth ODI hundred in England, making him the visiting batter with the most ODI centuries in a single foreign country. He also shared a 113-run partnership with Virat Kohli, their 21st century stand in ODI cricket, moving them to second place on the all-time list for the most hundred partnerships.
Even though India could not complete the chase, Rohit’s extraordinary innings and the remarkable story behind Shardul Thakur’s bat ensured that the match will be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in Indian ODI history.
