Does Rohit Sharma Belong in the 'All Time Indian Batting Greats' List?
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Synopsis
In a revealing statement, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar argues that Rohit Sharma, despite his achievements in limited-overs formats, does not qualify as one of India's all-time batting legends. This article delves into Manjrekar's reasoning and examines Rohit's impressive statistics and leadership qualities.
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma excels in limited-overs formats but falls short in Test cricket.
- Manjrekar emphasizes the importance of Test performances for all-time great status.
- Rohit's leadership has garnered immense admiration, especially post the 2023 World Cup.
- Despite his ODI and T20I success, Test records weigh heavily in greatness discussions.
- Rohit is India's fourth-highest run-scorer in international cricket.
New Delhi, Sep 9 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed his view that Rohit Sharma should not be considered among the elite list of India’s all-time batting legends. While acknowledging Rohit's skills in limited-overs cricket, he emphasized that performances in the longer format carry more significance when discussing the 'All Time Indian Batting Greats'.
Earlier this year, Rohit led India to victory in the Champions Trophy before announcing his retirement from Test cricket in May, ahead of the England tour. The 38-year-old had previously retired from T20I cricket following India's triumph in the T20 World Cup in Barbados last year.
“Rohit Sharma does not belong in the list of All Time Indian Batting Greats because we are comparing him to legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Virat Kohli. He simply doesn’t measure up,” stated Manjrekar during an episode of The Great Indian Cricket Show on Doordarshan.
Rohit has accumulated 4,301 runs from 67 Tests, boasting an average of 40.57 with 12 centuries and 18 fifties. As an opener in Tests, he holds an impressive average of 42.81, with nine centuries and eight fifties. He also guided India to the finals of the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC), where they finished as runners-up against Australia.
“In ODI cricket, however, when it comes to selflessness and leadership, Rohit Sharma deserves recognition. Especially post the 2023 World Cup, his popularity has soared as fans appreciate his willingness to prioritize team success over personal achievements. That is his true strength,” he added.
His dominance in limited-overs cricket has been remarkable, with memorable performances such as nearly scoring 300 runs in a single ODI innings. However, when discussing the greatest Indian batsmen of all time, the significance of Test cricket cannot be overlooked, and Manjrekar feels Rohit has not made a substantial impact in that arena,” he remarked.
Rohit ranks as India's fourth-highest run-scorer in international cricket, amassing 19,700 runs across all formats. In 273 ODIs, he has scored 11,168 runs at an average of 48.76, including 32 centuries and 58 fifties. His T20I tally stands at 4,231 runs, with five centuries and 32 fifties. In Tests, he has scored 4,301 runs from 67 matches.
Point of View
It's essential to maintain a balanced perspective. While Sanjay Manjrekar's observations about Rohit Sharma's position in cricket history are noteworthy, they spark a critical discussion on the criteria for greatness in cricket. Rohit’s contributions to limited-overs formats cannot be overlooked, and they highlight his unique strengths as a player.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't Manjrekar consider Rohit Sharma an all-time great?
Manjrekar believes that while Rohit excels in limited-overs cricket, he has not made a substantial impact in Test matches, which hold greater significance in discussions about all-time greats.
What are Rohit Sharma's achievements in international cricket?
Rohit Sharma has scored 19,700 runs in international cricket, making him India's fourth-highest run-scorer, with notable performances in ODIs and T20Is.
What did Rohit achieve in the 2023 World Cup?
Rohit Sharma's leadership was pivotal in India's journey to the finals of the 2023 World Test Championship, where they finished as runners-up.
What is Rohit Sharma's Test batting average?
Rohit Sharma has a Test batting average of 40.57, with 12 centuries and 18 fifties from 67 matches.
How does Manjrekar view Rohit's captaincy?
Manjrekar acknowledges Rohit's selflessness and leadership qualities, particularly in the context of ODI cricket, highlighting the respect he commands among fans.
