Rohit Sharma faced disappointment in the third and final ODI against the West Indies on October 3, 2023, in Mullanpur, as he fell just short of another century, scoring 92 runs. This near-miss has placed him in a unique group of players who have been dismissed in the 90s multiple times against the West Indies. He joins the ranks of notable cricketers like Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Vusi Sibanda, and Adam Gilchrist.
In this match, Rohit began his innings with great promise, having scored a century in Guwahati earlier in the series. He played confidently, reaching 92 runs from 85 balls, during which he struck 10 fours and 3 sixes. Unfortunately, Keemo Paul ended his impressive run.
This dismissal marked the seventh time Rohit has been out in the 90s during international matches, with five of those in ODIs.
### Most 90s Dismissals in ODIs Against West Indies:
– Virat Kohli – 2
– Virender Sehwag – 2
– Vusi Sibanda – 2
– Adam Gilchrist – 2
– Rohit Sharma – 2
### Rohit’s Performance in Mullanpur
Rohit started his innings carefully, playing in a way that respected the movement of the ball. He scored his first runs with a flick for two runs in the opening over. After settling in, he reached his half-century off 58 balls, gradually picking up the pace as he went along.
Using his distinctive timing and placement skills, Rohit found success, especially on the off-side. His ability to accelerate was showcased with a pull shot that sent the ball 72 meters for a six off Alzarri Joseph. He also skillfully swept against the spin bowlers, showcasing his talent for finding gaps with precise drives and cuts.
Rohit formed a crucial partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad, rebuilding India’s innings after the early loss of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli. Together, they added 137 runs, stabilizing the match for India. Rohit’s scoring was impressive, as he not only reached his fifty but also scored 42 runs from just 27 balls afterward.
Throughout his innings, there were a few anxious moments. The West Indies team reviewed an LBW appeal against Rohit early in his innings. The ball had hit him on the pads, but it was determined that it wouldn’t have hit the stumps. He faced another close LBW call against Alzarri Joseph, but this decision was overturned when it was shown the ball was heading down the leg side.
Rohit finally reached the 90s with two consecutive boundaries off Motie. Unfortunately, his innings came to an end when Keemo Paul caught him out, denying him the chance to score his 36th ODI century.
– Ends –
