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On This Day In 2007: Rohit Sharma Stepped In T20I Format And Never Looked Back

Sakshi Sharma

Rohit Sharma Made His India Debut Today (Source:@CricCrazyJohns,x.com)Rohit Sharma Made His India Debut Today (Source:@CricCrazyJohns,x.com)

In a significant development, today date is very special as Rohit Sharma made his T20I debut on September 19, 2007. A young  Mumbaikar stepped onto the international stage in a relatively new format of the game - T20 cricket.

India took on England in a group stage match of the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup at the Durban, South Africa. However, it is important to mention that Rohit Sharma did not bat or bowl in the match.

Moving to 2025, before retirement, Rohit Sharma has played 159 matches, the most by any player in T20I history. Over the course of his 17-year T20I career, the Mumbai Indians star amassed 4,231 runs at a stellar average of 32.05 and an impressive strike rate of 140.89. He also holds the record for the most sixes hit in T20I. 

The Hitman Era

Fondly known as the 'Hitman', Rohit Sharma’s T20I journey is marked by historical milestones and unforgettable innings. From his five T20I centuries to countless match-winning knocks, Rohit has time and again delivered for India under pressure. His consistency in the shortest format have placed him among the greatest in white-ball format.

In a fairy-tale ending to his T20I career, Rohit Sharma led India to victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Shortly after lifting the trophy, he announced his retirement from T20Is. 

What’s Next For The ODI Captain?

Despite stepping away from T20Is and Tests, Rohit Sharma continues to lead India in ODIs. The recent Champions Trophy 2025 win added another feather to his captaincy cap, with fans now hopeful that the veteran will steer India in the 2027 ODI World Cup as well.

As it stands, Rohit Sharma has not played for India since the Champions Trophy final earlier this year.