Rohit Sharma slams his 23rd ODI century
It's doesn't take long before India leaves a mark in the early stages of any tournament or series and starring in the Men in Blue's opening World Cup match against South Africa is the 'HIT-MAN', Rohit Sharma, who slammed his 23rd ODI century on Wednesday at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.
Rohit slammed his ton off 128 balls which included 10 fours and 2 sixes. With the ton as well, he has overtaken former skipper Sourav Ganguly's total of 22.
After the Indian bowlers did their bit by restricting South Africa to 227/9 through the help of Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rohit Sharma did his bit by leading India from the front. Early in the chase, India saw Shikhar Dhawan back in the hut early after scoring 8 runs, which was soon followed by Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who was removed by Andile Phehlukwayo in the 15th over.
Rohit last slammed an ODI century during India's tour of Australia in January at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SG). At the time, Rohit equalled Sourav Ganguly's 22 ODI tons and with this century, he has overtaken the former skipper.
Earlier, Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal grabbed four wickets, helping India restrict South Africa to a sub-par 227 for 9 in their opening encounter of the World Cup here Wednesday.
South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis’ decision to bat under overcast conditions backfired with Jasprit Bumrah (10-1-35-2) setting the tone with twin blows in his opening spell.
Chahal (10-0-51-4) then tightened the noose on South African batsmen as they could never really force the pace during the middle overs. Incidentally, this was the best 10-over single spell (in terms of wickets taken) by any bowler in a World Cup game.
