On This Day in 2017: Rohit Sharma slams fastest T20I century by an Indian cricketer (Photo Source: Twitter)
On December 22, 2017, Rohit Sharma scripted history when he slammed a 35-ball century against Sri Lanka in the second T20I in a three-match series. This encounter took place at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore, which is known for producing some of the best batting surfaces in the country.
After Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field first, Indian openers Rohit and KL Rahul took the opposition bowlers to the cleaners. While Rahul played some gorgeous shots in his innings, Rohit hogged the limelight, making a mockery of the boundary ropes.
The Indian captain took just 35 balls to reach the three-figure mark. This was the fastest century by an Indian player in T20I cricket. He also equalled David Miller’s record for the fastest century in T20Is. In the last seven years, Kushal Malla, Sikandar Raza, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, and Sahil Chauhan have scored T20I centuries off fewer deliveries but Rohit’s scintillating knock still holds a special place in cricketing folklore.
The Nagpur-born smashed 12 fours and 10 sixes during his awe-inspiring innings of 118 off 43 balls. He was dismissed in the 13th over by Dushmantha Chameera. Many feel that he could have been the first batter to score a double century in the format had he batted the full quota of 20 overs. Rohit finished with a staggering strike rate of 274.41.
India amassed 260/5 in their 20 overs after Rahul also contributed with a 49-ball 89. The opening partnership yielded 165 runs inside 13 overs to set India up for the massive first innings total.
In reply, Kusal Perera scored a fantastic 77 off 37 balls, while Upul Tharanga chipped in with a 29-ball 47. However, the Sri Lankans fell way short of the Indian total as they were bowled out for 172 in 17.2 overs. The home side won the match by a comprehensive margin of 88 runs. Indian spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav proved to be expensive but they picked up four and three wickets, respectively.