Rohit Sharma Sets New Record as Asia’s Most Prolific ODI Century Scorer in SENA Nations

After enduring criticism for a series of low scores, Rohit Sharma signaled a resounding comeback in white‑ball cricket. His 15th international century, achieved by an Asian batsman across SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia), came in style at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Notably, this innings marked Sharma’s 15th ODI century, making him the first Indian batsman to score a century at Lord’s and surpassing the record previously held by Sourav Ganguly (who reached the milestone against England in 2004). Additionally, he became the oldest player to score an ODI century at Lord’s and the oldest Indian to achieve an international century at the venue in any format.

• 15 – Rohit Sharma
• 10 – Virat Kohli
• 10 – Sanath Jayasuriya
• 10 – Kumar Sangakkara
• 9 – Sachin Tendulkar
• 8 – Sourav Ganguly
• 8 – Shikhar Dhawan

Rohit Sharma Steps Into a Pivotal ODI at Lord’s

Entering the third ODI at Lord’s, Rohit Sharma faced intense speculation regarding his future with the Indian team. Commentators suggested that the current England series might represent his final chapter in international cricket, as selectors begin planning for the next generation.

The Indian Express reported that the BCCI’s senior selection committee has opted for a strategic shift following the conclusion of the tour. The panel is said to have discussed long‑term objectives with both Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, the management aims to cultivate a younger lineup, with Yashasvi Jaiswal identified as a leading candidate to open alongside Shubman Gill. Although no formal declaration has been issued, speculation abounds regarding the possibility that this Lord’s match could mark Rohit Sharma’s final international appearance for India.

Duckett and Bethell Dismantle India’s Inexperienced Bowling Attack

Ben Duckett exploited an inexperienced Indian bowling attack that was missing its talismanic pace bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who was sidelined with a knee injury sustained in a recent match.

India’s pace contingent struggled to make an impact at Lord’s, with Prasidh Krishna (2/69), Arshdeep Singh (0/72), Prince Yadav (1/79) and debutant Gurnoor Brar (0/97) failing to consistently challenge England’s dominant batting on a conducive surface, despite their combined 51 ODI appearances.

Duckett and Jacob Bethell executed their strategy flawlessly. After a steady opening phase that produced 58 runs in the Powerplay, they accelerated between overs 11 and 30, seizing complete control of the innings and intensifying pressure on the Indian bowlers.

India also appeared to miss a specialist second spinner alongside Axar Patel, who returned figures of 0/61 from his ten overs. Kuldeep Yadav’s limited involvement under head coach Gautam Gambhir has previously generated debate, and the absence of a second frontline spinner was apparent as England’s batters dictated the tempo of the innings.

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