Wed Dec 03 08:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Rohit Sharma Smashes Sixes Record, Overtakes Afridi to Become ODI Six King
RANCHI, India – In a stunning display of power-hitting, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has etched his name in the record books, becoming the batsman with the most sixes in One Day International (ODI) cricket. Sharma surpassed Shahid Afridi’s long-standing record of 351 sixes during the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.
Sharma, who hit the record-breaking six off Marco Jansen, has transformed into an unparalleled six-hitter. While he wasn’t known for his power hitting early in his career, a remarkable shift occurred in 2013, marked by a blistering innings against Australia where he struck 16 sixes. Since then, his six-hitting prowess has skyrocketed, averaging a six every 27.35 balls. As captain, his balls-per-six ratio has improved to an astonishing 17.69.
“It’s a great feeling,” Sharma said after the match. “I’ve always enjoyed hitting sixes, and to break this record is a special moment. But more importantly, I’m focused on contributing to the team’s success.”
Sharma also holds other impressive records, including the most sixes against a single team (93 vs Australia), the most in a single country (182 in India), and the most in a calendar year (67 in 2023). His dominance extends to the ODI World Cup, where he holds the record for the most sixes with 54.
Sharma’s journey to the top involved overcoming the legends of the game. The record previously changed hands numerous times, from Ian Chappell to West Indian greats like Clive Lloyd and Viv Richards. Sanath Jayasuriya and Afridi then held the record for a decade, before Sharma’s ascent.
Among active players, Jos Buttler is second with 182 sixes, while Virat Kohli (159) is the only other batter with 150-plus sixes.
At his current rate, Sharma could become the first batsman to reach 400 sixes in ODIs, solidifying his legacy as the ultimate six-hitter in the format.
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