In a historic moment during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma catapulted himself into cricketing folklore by achieving the remarkable feat of hitting the most sixes in the tournament’s history. This defining moment occurred during the World Cup semifinal against New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
Rohit Sharma: A Six-Hitting Maestro Emerges
Rohit’s bat spoke volumes as he delivered yet another stellar performance, contributing a short yet impactful innings. His 47 runs in 29 balls included four boundaries and four sixes, showcasing his exceptional talent and dominance. Notably, he achieved this milestone with a strike rate exceeding 162.
With this outstanding display, Rohit now stands tall with 51 sixes in the Cricket World Cup, surpassing West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who held the record with 49 sixes. This achievement not only places Rohit at the top of the sixes chart but also breaks the record for the most sixes in a single World Cup edition, with an impressive 28 sixes in the 2023 tournament.
In the ongoing World Cup, Rohit has been a consistent force, amassing 550 runs in 10 matches at an average of 55.00 and a strike rate exceeding 124. His impactful contributions include a century and three fifties, making him the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament.
Adding another feather to his cap, Rohit also crossed the milestone of 1,500 runs in Cricket World Cup history, joining an elite club as the fifth batter to achieve this feat. In 27 World Cup matches, he has accumulated 1,528 runs at an impressive average of 61.12, featuring a record seven centuries and six fifties.
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The Record Breakers: Top 5 Batsmen with the Most Sixes in ODI World Cups
1. Rohit Sharma, The Hitman
Indian captain Rohit Sharma has not only become the record holder for the most sixes in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup but has done so in a fashion that cements his status as a six-hitting maestro. His remarkable journey from the top 20 to number 1 in just a few games during the 2023 World Cup is a testament to his exceptional skills.
Rohit’s impact goes far beyond the confines of the World Cup, as he currently holds the record for the highest number of international sixes, an impressive tally of 51. This achievement not only solidifies his dominance in the cricketing arena but also positions him as a frontrunner for the title of the most prolific six-hitter in the entire history of the sport.
2. Chris Gayle, The Universe Boss
West Indies’ striking phenom, Chris Gayle, finds himself in second place for hitting the most sixes in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. From 2003 to 2019, Gayle impressively struck 49 sixes in 34 innings, showcasing his prowess. Known for his inclination towards boundaries, Gayle’s mastery in T20s effortlessly extends to the ODI format, establishing him as a premier six-hitter in the cricketing realm.
3. Glenn Maxwell, The Big Show
Australia’s dynamic all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, not only shattered the record for the fastest hundred in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 but also claimed the third spot in the list of players with the most sixes, accumulating a total of 43. Maxwell’s miraculous innings against Afghanistan, including the 13th ODI double-century, showcased his ability to clear the boundaries with flair and finesse.
4. AB de Villiers, Mr. 360 Degree
South African fan-favorite, AB de Villiers, earned his place as the fourth-highest six-hitter in ODI World Cups, following in the footsteps of Chris Gayle. Known for his unconventional shots and the ability to hit all corners of the field, de Villiers amassed 37 sixes in 22 innings from 2007 to 2015. His power-hitting prowess, coupled with records for the fastest ODI century, fastest 50, and 150, adds another layer to his cricketing legacy.
5. David Warner, The Bull
Explosive Australian opener David Warner has carved a niche for himself as one of the most destructive six-hitters in cricket. With an aggressive batting style and incredible hand-eye coordination, Warner claims the fifth spot in the list of players with the most sixes, having hit a total of 37 in just 26 innings. His memorable innings resonate as a testament to his ability to leave a lasting impact on the game.