A Historic Milestone for Indian Cricket
It finally happened — Rohit Sharma, the ever-consistent Indian opener, has become the No.1 ODI batter in the ICC rankings for the first time in his 18-year career. This achievement, coming in 2025, stunned not only fans but even cricket experts and legends who have followed Rohit’s glorious journey from a young prodigy to one of the greatest white-ball batters of all time.
Despite his numerous records, including three double centuries in ODIs and an unforgettable run in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, Rohit had never topped the ODI batting rankings — until now.
Rohit Sharma First Time No.1 ODI Batter: A Dream Realized After 18 Years
For many fans, this ranking was long overdue. How could someone who has scored over 10,000 ODI runs, led India to countless victories, and produced historic innings not have been No.1 before?
Well, cricket rankings are not just about numbers — they’re about form, consistency, opposition strength, and recency. But one thing’s clear — Rohit’s latest surge is a result of sustained dominance in 2025.
A Look Back: Rohit’s Journey from Talent to Titan
From his debut in 2007 to his evolution as India’s captain, Rohit Sharma’s career has been a masterclass in patience and perseverance. Early in his career, inconsistency held him back. But once he found his rhythm as an opener in 2013, there was no stopping him.
He became the only cricketer to hit three double hundreds in ODIs — a feat unmatched in cricket history.
Why the Delay? Why Did Rohit Take So Long to Reach No.1?
That’s the million-dollar question. Even during his 2019 World Cup heroics, where Rohit scored five centuries, he never reached the No.1 ranking.
This anomaly puzzled fans and commentators alike. As Harsha Bhogle said on Cricbuzz, “What does it tell you about the rankings?”
The Cricbuzz Panel Reaction: Shock and Confusion
During a recent Cricbuzz discussion, host Harsha Bhogle and former RCB wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik expressed sheer surprise.
Bhogle opened with curiosity, asking, “What does it tell you about the rankings?”
Karthik, echoing fans’ sentiments, replied, “I am surprised that in 2019, he was somewhere in the top. Five hundreds, he got five hundreds. To be honest, I don’t know how the rankings work. But just the way he batted, he was poetry in motion.”
‘Not Sure How the Rankings Work’: The RCB Legend’s Honest Admission
Dinesh Karthik’s statement perfectly captured what millions of fans were thinking — if Rohit Sharma wasn’t No.1 after that World Cup, then when would he ever be?
It also highlighted the opaque nature of ICC’s ranking system, which, while mathematically fair, often confuses even the experts.
How the ICC ODI Batting Rankings Actually Work?
Curious about the method behind the madness? The ICC Player Rankings are based on a formula that considers:
- Runs scored in each innings
- Quality of opposition bowlers
- Match context (chasing, pressure situations)
- Recency of performance — recent games weigh more heavily
- Consistency — avoiding low scores keeps averages high
Quick Example:
A player scoring 80 against Australia or England gets more points than 100 against a weaker side.
So, Rohit’s consistent knocks against top-tier teams in 2025 finally propelled him past Shubman Gill, the previous No.1.
When Did Rohit Sharma Officially Become No.1?
According to the ICC update on October 29, 2025, Rohit Sharma dethroned Shubman Gill and became the oldest player (at 38 years and 182 days) to reach the top of the ODI batting rankings.
This milestone added yet another feather to his already illustrious cap.
Rohit Sharma vs. Shubman Gill: The Friendly Rivalry
Interestingly, Rohit replaced his own teammate, Shubman Gill, at the top. The two openers have often shared mutual admiration, with Gill calling Rohit his “mentor and role model.”
This transition from mentor to successor — and back again — symbolizes Indian cricket’s depth and continuity.
What Makes Rohit Sharma’s Achievement So Special?
Becoming No.1 once is hard — doing it for the first time at 38 is extraordinary. It’s a testament to fitness, discipline, and adaptability.
Rohit continues to dominate modern ODI cricket with his impeccable timing, calm temperament, and leadership maturity.
Rohit’s Best ODI Innings That Proved His Greatness
| Match | Opponent | Runs | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India vs Sri Lanka | 264 | 2014 | Highest individual ODI score ever | |
| India vs Pakistan | 140 | 2019 | World Cup masterclass | |
| India vs Australia | 209 | 2013 | First ODI double century | |
| India vs Bangladesh | 137 | 2015 | World Cup quarter-final brilliance | |
| India vs England | 141* | 2018 | Dominated in a chase |
Each innings reflected why Rohit is not just a run-getter but a match-winner.
How Fans Reacted on Social Media?
The internet erupted with joy and nostalgia. Hashtags like #HitmanNo1 and #RohitSharma trended worldwide.
Fans flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with posts celebrating the moment, calling it “justice delayed but not denied.”
Harsha Bhogle’s Take: The Rankings Tell a Bigger Story
Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle’s words struck a chord — “What does it tell you about the rankings?”
It’s not just about numbers but about context — rankings reflect current form, not necessarily career greatness.
Why Rohit Sharma Is a Symbol of Consistency in Modern Cricket?
Few players maintain such a high level of performance across formats. Rohit’s ability to switch gears, dominate spinners and pacers alike, and play the long innings make him a rare breed in modern cricket.
The Science Behind Rohit’s Batting Brilliance
Rohit Sharma’s success isn’t luck — it’s calculated mastery.
His technique — compact, still head, and quick hand-eye coordination — allows him to play both pace and spin effortlessly. His timing, rather than brute power, defines his elegance.
A Captain’s Influence: How Leadership Boosted Rohit’s Form?
Since taking over India’s captaincy, Rohit has balanced team responsibility and personal excellence. His leadership calmness mirrors his batting — composed under pressure, strategic, and always focused on the big picture.
Records That Define Rohit Sharma’s ODI Career
- 3 Double Centuries in ODIs (only player ever)
- Most Hundreds in a Single World Cup (5)
- Over 10,000 ODI Runs
- Average above 48
- Strike Rate consistently over 90
These are not just stats — they’re legacy markers.
What’s Next for Rohit Sharma After Reaching No.1?
With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy approaching, Rohit’s focus will be on leading India to another major title. Staying at No.1 will require maintaining his form against top-tier teams.
The Hidden Challenge: Staying No.1 in ODI Rankings
Maintaining the top spot is even harder than reaching it. Every innings matters. Players like Babar Azam and Shubman Gill are not far behind, ensuring fierce competition.
The Psychology of Being No.1
Being ranked No.1 isn’t just about numbers — it boosts confidence, public perception, and even opponents’ strategies. Rohit’s aura as the world’s best ODI batter could intimidate bowlers and inspire teammates.
Rohit Sharma’s Legacy: Beyond Rankings
Even if rankings fluctuate, Rohit’s place in history is secure. He’s more than a number — he’s a phenomenon, a fan-favorite, and a torchbearer for Indian cricket’s modern era.
Rohit Sharma’s First Time No.1 in ODIs Leaves RCB Legend Surprised: ‘Not Sure How the Rankings Work’
This viral comment by Dinesh Karthik encapsulates the fans’ reaction — surprise mixed with admiration. It shows that even within cricket circles, ICC’s system remains a mystery.
Yet, as Rohit continues to pile up runs and break barriers, one thing is crystal clear — his greatness transcends statistics.
FAQs About Rohit Sharma First Time No.1 ODI Batter
1. When did Rohit Sharma become No.1 in ODI rankings?
Rohit Sharma became the ICC No.1 ODI batter on October 29, 2025, dethroning Shubman Gill.
2. How old is Rohit Sharma now?
Rohit Sharma is 38 years and 182 days old, making him the oldest player to reach No.1 in ICC ODI rankings.
3. How does the ICC calculate ODI rankings?
The ICC uses a points-based system that rewards recent performances, opposition strength, and match context.
4. Why wasn’t Rohit Sharma No.1 after the 2019 World Cup?
Despite scoring five centuries, other players had better average consistency and recent match influence, which kept Rohit just below the top.
5. Who did Rohit replace to become No.1?
Rohit replaced Shubman Gill, who previously held the No.1 spot in ODI rankings.
6. What are Rohit Sharma’s future goals?
Rohit aims to lead India to victory in upcoming ICC tournaments and maintain his top-ranking status.
Conclusion: A Timeless Triumph for India’s Hitman
Rohit Sharma’s journey to becoming the No.1 ODI batter for the first time is a story of patience, resilience, and unshakable belief.
Even as experts question the ranking formulas, the world celebrates his artistry. Numbers may fluctuate, but Rohit’s legacy as one of cricket’s greatest entertainers will remain eternal.
In the end, the rankings may not define greatness — but moments like these remind us why we fell in love with the game.
