On December 13, 2017, Rohit Sharma etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a sensational performance against Sri Lanka. In the second ODI of the series played in Mohali, Rohit became the first-ever cricketer to score three double centuries in ODI cricket, a record that stands as one of the most remarkable feats in the sport.

The Historic 208*

In a game that would forever be remembered, Rohit Sharma played a captain's knock, remaining unbeaten on 208 runs. His extraordinary innings included 13 boundaries and 12 sixes, dominating the Sri Lankan bowlers with breathtaking shots all over the ground. Rohit’s unbeaten 208 helped India post a formidable total of 392/4 in their allotted 50 overs.

Rohit had already made history with two previous double centuries. His first double ton came in 2013 against Australia in Bangalore (209 runs), followed by a massive 264 runs against Sri Lanka in Kolkata in 2014. However, his performance on December 13, 2017, against Sri Lanka made him the first cricketer in history to score three double centuries in ODIs.

A Special Occasion: Rohit’s Anniversary

What made this achievement even more significant was the fact that it coincided with the anniversary of Rohit’s marriage to Ritika Sajdeh. As the duo celebrated nine years of marriage, Rohit’s match-winning performance could not have been a more fitting gift to his wife. To make it even more memorable, he helped his team secure a 141-run victory, thus marking a historic day in both his personal and professional life.

The Match Summary

After losing the toss, India was sent to bat first, and Rohit, along with Shikhar Dhawan, provided a solid start with a 115-run partnership. Although Dhawan fell for a quickfire 68, Rohit continued his assault on the Sri Lankan bowlers. Reaching his century off 115 balls, Rohit accelerated, racing past the 200-run mark and remaining unbeaten at 208 runs by the end of India’s innings.

Shreyas Iyer also played a crucial role in helping India reach a commanding total, contributing 88 runs. Despite a valiant century from Angelo Mathews, who finished unbeaten on 111, the Sri Lankan team fell short, ending their chase with 251 runs, 141 runs behind India’s total.

Yuzvendra Chahal, the Indian spinner, was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets for 60 runs, contributing to Sri Lanka’s downfall.

Rohit Sharma’s Legacy in ODI Cricket

Rohit Sharma’s historic 208* is a testament to his prowess as one of the greatest ODI batters in the history of cricket. While he may be going through a lean patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, this innings from 2017 will remain a highlight of his career. His remarkable achievements in ODIs have already solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s modern-day greats.

Rohit Sharma's ability to score big in ODIs, particularly his consistency in achieving double centuries, sets him apart as one of the most feared and respected batsmen in the world.