IPL Chair Arun Dhumal Commends Rohit’s 32nd ODI Century, Expresses Pride

Synopsis

Cuttack, Feb 9 (NationPress) Captain Rohit Sharma's remarkable 119-run performance helped India secure a four-wicket victory over England in the second ODI at the Barabati Stadium, showcasing his return to form ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Key Takeaways

Rohit Sharma scored 119 runs in the second ODI.
India chased down 305 runs with 33 balls to spare.
IPL chief Arun Dhumal praised Rohit’s innings.
This is Rohit's 32nd ODI century.
India leads the series 2-0 against England.

Cuttack, Feb 9 (NationPress) Captain Rohit Sharma made a spectacular comeback by scoring an impressive 119 runs, leading India to a four-wicket victory over England in the second ODI at the Barabati Stadium on Sunday.

This marks Rohit’s 32nd ODI century, featuring 12 fours and 7 sixes, supported by Shubman Gill’s 60 and significant contributions from Shreyas Iyer (44) and Axar Patel (41 not out), enabling India to successfully chase down 305 runs with 33 balls to spare, thus securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

This century, which is his second fastest in ODIs, symbolizes the captain's return to form, as it is his first century in the format since his record-breaking ton against Afghanistan during the 2023 ODI World Cup.

'That was an extraordinary innings by Rohit Sharma. We all take immense pride in him. The caliber of play he showcased just ahead of the Champions Trophy is truly commendable,' remarked IPL chief Arun Dhumal in a statement to IANS.

Rohit had faced a challenging period leading up to this match, struggling significantly in the Test format. He had an underwhelming Test series against New Zealand and Australia, even withdrawing from the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to poor performance.

Prior to this ODI series, Rohit had confronted a reporter, asserting his confidence in recovering his form.

'What sort of question is that? This is a different format and different circumstances. As cricketers, we understand that there will be fluctuations, and I have experienced plenty in my career, so this is nothing unfamiliar. Every day presents a new opportunity, and every series is a fresh start,' Rohit had stated on Wednesday.

Fans can breathe a sigh of relief regarding Rohit’s revival as India prepares for the 2025 Champions Trophy starting on February 19, with India’s campaign kicking off against Bangladesh on February 20.