Rohit Sharma makes history, becomes first Indian to score ODI century at Lord’s; breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record

India’s Rohit Sharma (ANI photo) Rohit Sharma rewrote the record books with a century at Lord’s on Sunday, becoming the first Indian batsman to record an ODI set at the iconic venue while leading India’s chase in the deciding third match of the series against England. The milestone knock came at a time when the veteran opener was under intense scrutiny, with speculation surrounding his ODI future and suggestions that Lord’s fixture could be his final appearance in the format. Rohit responded in the best possible way and produced an unforgettable innings on one of cricket’s biggest stages. The 39-year-old thus became the oldest Indian to score an ODI century and also the oldest Indian batsman to score a century across all international formats. At 39 years and 80 days, Rohit surpassed Sachin Tendulkar, who previously held the record after scoring an ODI hundred at the age of 38 years and 327 days. The century also added to Rohit’s remarkable record in England. It was his eighth ODI hundred in the country, bringing him level with former England opener Marcus Trescothick. Only Joe Root, with 10 ODI centuries for England, has scored more hundreds in the country, while Rohit has moved ahead of several international greats who have seven centuries each in one visiting nation. The innings had added significance as India chased down a daunting target after England amassed 387 for 3 in the first innings. Earlier, Ben Duckett smashed a stunning 141 and shared a 192-run opening partnership with Jacob Bethell, who contributed 91, as England dominated an inexperienced Indian pace team missing the injured Jasprit Bumrah. Joe Root continued his excellent form with an unbeaten 74, while Jose Buttler’s explosive 41 not out off just 13 balls lifted England to their highest ever ODI total at Lord’s. Faced with a mammoth chase and mounting outside pressure, Rohit responded to his critics in emphatic fashion, producing a historic century that not only kept India’s hopes alive but also secured his place in Lord’s folklore as the first Indian batsman to score an ODI hundred at the Home of Cricket.