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On November 13, 2014, cricket history was rewritten in spectacular fashion as Rohit Sharma delivered a breathtaking performance, setting a record that remains untouched even 11 years later. Facing Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Rohit’s blistering 264 off 225 balls became the highest individual score ever in a One Day International (ODI), an achievement that astonished the cricketing world and showcased his incredible prowess with the bat. This historic knock outshone Sri Lanka’s total score of 251, firmly establishing Rohit’s place in the annals of cricket history.
The explosive innings that set new benchmarks
In a display of skill and determination, Rohit smashed 9 sixes and 33 fours, taking India’s total to a formidable 404 for 5 in their 50 overs. Initially cautious, Rohit took time to find his rhythm after a comeback from injury but quickly accelerated towards the end of the innings. By the time India reached the 40th over, they stood at 275 for 3, and in the final 10 overs, the team added 129 runs—with Rohit alone contributing 110 in this period.
India’s commanding win as Sri Lanka falls short
Sri Lanka, tasked with chasing a daunting total, could only manage 251 runs before being bowled out, 13 runs shy of Rohit’s solo effort. India’s Dhawal Kulkarni led the charge with the ball, claiming 4 wickets for 35 runs in his 10 overs, ensuring India’s emphatic 153-run victory. This match marked Rohit’s second double-century in ODIs, having previously scored his first against Australia in Bengaluru in 2013. He went on to score a third double-century in 2017, setting him apart as the only player to achieve three double tons in ODIs.
Also READ: When MS Dhoni perfectly predicted Rohit Sharma’s epic 264-run knock against Sri Lanka
The cricket world’s awe and ddmiration
Rohit’s 264 remains an extraordinary benchmark in ODI cricket. The feat ignited social media, with tributes pouring in from cricket legends, analysts, and fans around the globe. Celebrated players and commentators alike took to X (formerly Twitter) to honor Rohit’s brilliance, with icons like MS Dhoni, Michael Vaughan, and Harsha Bhogle lauding his incredible performance.
Here is how cricket fraternity had reacted to Rohit’s 264:
Very well batted Rohit.thats Rohit for everyone,sheer talent.Enjoy and Witness the class in action.
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) November 13, 2014
A record which is going to stay !! A delight 2 watch! Well done bro for creating history! @ImRo45 #264 #class#outstanding @BCCI
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 13, 2014
Next target @ImRo45 a double hundred in IPL, just asking…anything possible! Incredible, still can't believe @mipaltan @BCCI
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) November 13, 2014
Just so fluent and easy from @ImRo45. In this form he does make cricket look a very easy game
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 13, 2014
Amazing shots. Pleasing to the eyes. Hardwork meets talent n becomes rohit Sharma. Well played buddy
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 13, 2014
Unbelievable from @ImRo45 #congratulations
— Jos Buttler (@josbuttler) November 13, 2014
Can't believe @ImRo45 didn't make a Triple century… #useless
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 13, 2014
Wow !! What a special knock from a special player. Congrats @ImRo45 on an outstanding knock. Keep it up buddy @BCCI #IndvsSL
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) November 13, 2014
Well done brothaman @ImRo45 !!! Really enjoyed watching u bat ! Way to go buddy ….
— zaheer khan (@ImZaheer) November 13, 2014
So so so so so happy for @ImRo45 #kepke
— Adam Gilchrist (@gilly381) November 13, 2014