"Shows determination and concentration": Rohit hails skipper Gill's record-breaking double ton
Rohit Sharma hails Shubman Gill's incredible 223* against West Indies, highlighting the skipper's immense concentration and determination in Guwahati.
In a historic display of batting prowess, Indian captain Shubman Gill smashed a monumental unbeaten 223 against West Indies in the second ODI at Guwahati. Following India's record-breaking chase of 406 runs—the highest ever by an Indian side and the second-best in ODI history—veteran batter Rohit Sharma lauded Gill's incredible feat, emphasizing the mental toughness required to perform such a feat after fielding for an entire innings.
A Record-Breaking Partnership and Chase
The match witnessed a masterclass in opening batting as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill combined for a massive 255-run opening stand. This partnership stands as the second-best opening stand by an Indian pair in ODI history. While Rohit set the tone with a rapid 75-ball 101, it was Gill who took the game into uncharted territory.
Gill's innings was nothing short of legendary. He smashed the fastest ODI century by an Indian captain and went on to record the fastest double ton in ODI history. Finishing at 223* off just 133 balls, his knock included 26 boundaries and eight massive sixes, maintaining a strike rate of over 167.
Rohit Sharma on Gill's Mental Fortitude
Speaking via a BCCI video, Rohit Sharma expressed his admiration for the young skipper's ability to maintain focus under pressure. "It feels good, man. You don't score 200 every day," Rohit remarked. "What was pleasing to see was fielding for 50 overs and then batting for almost 40-odd overs. It is not easy, but that shows determination and concentration, which we always talk about."
Rohit further noted that the physical and mental exhaustion of captaining and fielding can be draining, making Gill's unbeaten knock even more significant. "The captain goes through so much stress every now and then... And then to come out and bat, and have that concentration and stay not out... Big positive," he added.
Milestones and Personal Achievements
The match was a milestone-heavy affair for both batters:
- Rohit Sharma: Became the third Indian to reach 12,000 ODI runs and the first batter to hit 200 sixes at home.
- Shubman Gill: Joined an elite club of players with multiple ODI double tons and surpassed Ishan Kishan's record for the fastest ODI double ton.
- Gill's Score: His 223* is the third-highest individual ODI score, trailing only Rohit Sharma's 264 and Martin Guptill's 237*.
The Strategy Behind the Blitz
Gill explained that the plan was to build a solid foundation by reaching 70–80 runs within the first 10 overs without losing wickets. Once the Powerplay concluded and Rohit began his onslaught, Gill felt the need to accelerate.
"After the Powerplay, Rohit bhai just unleashed, and then I had to catch up at one point," Gill said. "Once I caught up, I thought if the ball is in my zone, I will target the short boundary and take on the bowlers."
Gill also noted Rohit's infectious energy, mentioning how much he enjoyed seeing his senior teammate celebrate his century with high-knees and air punches. When asked about his own animated celebrations, Rohit simply stated, "Some celebrations are very, very personal, so you do not need to, every time... explain."