Rohit Sharma Surpasses M.S. Dhoni to Become India's Fifth-Highest Run-Scorer in International Cricket

In a remarkable feat, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has surpassed his compatriot M.S. Dhoni to become India's fifth-highest run-scorer in international cricket. This milestone was achieved during India's second Test against West Indies at Port of Spain. Rohit Sharma, popularly known as the 'Hitman,' showcased his vintage form by scoring an impressive 80 runs in 143 balls, including nine fours and two sixes.

Rohit Sharma's International Career
Rohit Sharma has had an illustrious international cricket career, representing India in various formats of the game. To date, he has made 443 appearances and scored a staggering 17,298 runs at an average of 42.92. With an impressive tally of 44 centuries and 92 fifties in 463 innings, Rohit Sharma has firmly established himself as one of the finest batsmen to have played for India.

Test Matches
In the realm of Test cricket, Rohit Sharma has showcased his versatility and skill. He has played 52 Test matches, accumulating 3,620 runs at an average of 46.41. In these matches, he has scored 10 centuries and 15 fifties in 87 innings, with a remarkable best score of 212 runs. His contributions as an opener have been particularly noteworthy, with 27 Test matches played in this position, leading to a total of 2,035 runs at an average of 53.55 in 40 innings.

One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
Rohit Sharma's success extends to the One-Day International format as well. With 243 ODI matches under his belt, he has amassed 9,825 runs at an average of 48.63. This includes an impressive tally of 30 centuries and 48 fifties in 236 innings, with a phenomenal best score of 264 runs. His ability to consistently score big runs has been instrumental in India's success in ODIs over the years.

Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
Rohit Sharma has also made a significant impact in the fast-paced world of Twenty20 Internationals. Playing in 148 T20Is, he has scored 3,853 runs at an average of 31.32. His explosive batting style has resulted in four centuries and 29 half-centuries in this format, with his highest score being 118 runs. Rohit Sharma's contributions in T20Is have played a crucial role in India's success in the shortest format of the game.

India's All-Time Run-Scorers in International Cricket
While Rohit Sharma's achievements are extraordinary, he still remains behind several legendary Indian cricketers in terms of overall run-scoring. Let's take a look at the top four run-scorers in international cricket for India.

Sachin Tendulkar: Sachin Tendulkar stands tall as the highest run-scorer in international cricket, not just for India, but in the entire history of the game. He amassed a staggering 34,357 runs in 664 matches, including 100 centuries and 164 fifties.

Virat Kohli: The current Indian cricket captain, Virat Kohli, is a force to be reckoned with. With 25,484 runs in 500 matches, including 70 centuries and 105 fifties, Kohli has firmly established himself as one of the modern greats of the game.

Rahul Dravid: Known for his solid technique and resilience, Rahul Dravid has accumulated 24,064 runs in 504 matches, including 48 centuries and 146 fifties. His contributions to Indian cricket are highly regarded.

Sourav Ganguly: Fondly referred to as "Dada," Sourav Ganguly is another prominent name in Indian cricket history. Ganguly amassed 18,433 runs in 421 matches, including 38 centuries and 107 fifties. His aggressive captaincy style transformed Indian cricket during his tenure.

Now, Rohit Sharma finds himself in the esteemed company of these legendary cricketers as India's fifth-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing the great M.S. Dhoni.

Conclusion
Rohit Sharma's achievement of becoming India's fifth-highest run-scorer in international cricket is a testament to his skill, dedication, and consistency. Throughout his career, he has showcased his ability to perform across all formats of the game, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket. With numerous records to his name and many more to come, Rohit Sharma continues to be a vital asset for the Indian cricket team. As he surpasses one milestone after another, the 'Hitman' continues to etch his name in the annals of cricket history.