Rohit Sharma Breaks Shahid Afridi’s World Record for Most ODI Sixes During Brilliant Knock Against South Africa

Ranchi, Nov 2025 : Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma added yet another milestone to his illustrious career on Sunday, breaking former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi’s long-standing world record for the most sixes in One-Day Internationals. Playing a commanding innings against South Africa in the first ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Rohit smashed three sixes to surpass Afridi’s tally of 351 career maximums.

Afridi, known for his explosive batting, had held the record for years with 351 ODI sixes. Rohit entered the match close behind and went on to make history by hitting his 352nd six, now standing alone at the top of the global list of ODI big-hitters.

Batting first, Rohit anchored India’s innings with style and confidence. After the early dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal, he forged a superb 136-run second-wicket partnership with Virat Kohli. The experienced duo steadied the innings, counterattacked effectively, and kept the South African bowlers under pressure.

The defining moment arrived in the 15th over when Rohit launched Prenelan Subrayen for back-to-back sixes. The first of these took him to 350 career sixes—making him the only Indian batter ever to reach the landmark in ODI cricket. The second six drew him level with Afridi’s world record. Moments later, in the 19th over, Rohit reached his 60th ODI half-century, a testament to his consistency at the top of the order.

He eventually broke the world record with his 352nd six, firmly establishing himself as the most prolific six-hitter in ODI history. Only two other players—Afridi and Chris Gayle (331 sixes)—have crossed the 300-sixes mark, highlighting the exclusivity of Rohit’s achievement.

Rohit’s impressive stay at the crease ended in the 22nd over when Marco Jansen trapped him leg-before wicket. He returned to the pavilion after scoring a fluent 57 off 51 balls, an innings laced with five fours and three sixes. His knock not only powered India’s strong start but also rewrote the record books.

This innings continues Rohit’s superb run of form in ODIs. After scoring fifties in the second and third matches of the Australia series last month—and converting the final one into a match-winning century—he has now registered his third consecutive ODI half-century. His consistency and aggression once again underline his importance to India’s batting lineup.

With this remarkable achievement and consistent performances, Rohit has further strengthened his case for a pivotal role in India’s long-term plans, including the 2027 World Cup cycle.

Team Maverick.