Introduction
Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard is more than a line in the record books — it is a landmark innings that redefined what an opener can do in a One Day International. In this article we break down the innings, present the 264 scorecard details, examine batting stats and match context from the India vs Sri Lanka ODI at Eden Gardens, and explain why this record-breaking innings remains the highest individual ODI score. Whether you are a cricket fan, a stats lover, or someone studying great batting techniques, this guide covers everything you need to know about Rohit Sharma innings 264.
Setting the Scene: Match Context and Venue
The India vs Sri Lanka match that produced Rohit Sharma’s 264 took place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. India batted first, and the stage was perfect for an attacking opener. The pitch offered true pace and bounce early on, while the outfield and weather conditions favored the batting side. Understanding the match context helps interpret the 264 scorecard details — it wasn’t just an individual masterclass, it was an innings shaped by conditions, partnerships, and strategy.
Why the setting mattered
- Pitch and outfield: a receptive surface that still rewarded positive stroke play.
- Opposition bowling: Sri Lanka had an experienced attack but struggled with discipline in the line and length on the day.
- Team strategy: India backed their openers to set a platform, enabling Rohit to convert aggression into a massive total.
Scorecard Snapshot: The Numbers That Matter
When you look at the 264 scorecard details, a few raw numbers jump out as historic. Rohit scored 264 runs off 173 balls, an astonishing strike rate paired with longevity. He hit 33 fours and 9 sixes — a combination of precise timing and controlled power. These numbers together form the backbone of the highest individual ODI score and illustrate why the innings is classified as a record-breaking innings in ODI history.
- Runs: 264
- Balls faced: 173
- Fours: 33
- Sixes: 9
- Strike rate: approx. 152.6
Innings Progression: How the 264 Unfolded
Breaking down Rohit Sharma innings 264 over time shows the mix of steady accumulation and explosive bursts. He began with watchful strokes while assessing bowlers, then accelerated through the middle overs and unleashed frequent boundaries as partnerships settled. The rhythm of his innings is visible in the scorecard: consistent boundary hitting, rare dot-ball sequences, and several pivotal partnerships that kept the scoreboard moving.
Key phases
- Openers’ start: Rohit used the powerplay intelligently — taking advantage of field restrictions without undue risk.
- Consolidation: Middle overs saw selective aggression while rotating strike to maintain momentum.
- Acceleration: Final phases dominated by boundary hitting and big shots, converting a strong platform into a gigantic total.
Batting Technique and Approach: What Made the Innings Special
Rohit’s 264 was not just brute force. It combined classic timing, placement, strong footwork, and an exceptional ability to find gaps. A few technical highlights from the innings include:
- Perfect use of feet: To spinners he got to the pitch and to pace he used the crease to play late or early depending on length.
- Controlled power: Rather than swinging wildly, many sixes came from well-placed lofted shots and clearing the infield with intent.
- Shot selection: A balanced mix of ground strokes and aerial shots minimized risk while maximizing scoring opportunities.
These technical qualities are why cricket analysts often cite Rohit’s 264 as a masterclass in ODI batting technique combined with modern power-hitting.
Records and Milestones: ODI Record and Double Century Context
Rohit Sharma’s 264 remains the highest individual ODI score. It sits comfortably among other notable milestones, including his multiple ODI double centuries. For context:
- Rohit is one of the few players with multiple double centuries in ODIs, highlighting consistent match-winning capability.
- The innings surpassed previous high scores and set a new benchmark for what an opener could achieve in 50 overs.
- In the broader category of ODI record lists, the 264 is an outlier — both massive and efficient.
Comparing with other great innings like the earlier double centuries or big scores in 2010–2017 era emphasizes the unique scale of the 264.
Team Impact and Match Result
Beyond the headline number, the 264 had a decisive effect on the match. The massive total allowed India to control the contest, put pressure on the Sri Lankan batting line-up, and ultimately secure a comfortable win. Team totals and partnerships around the innings complemented Rohit’s effort — a reminder that a monumental individual score is most valuable when it translates into team success.
- Partnership value: Strong stands with partners provided the stability for Rohit to accelerate.
- Run rate pressure: The big total forced Sri Lanka to play aggressively, leading to wickets and scoring collapses.
- Psychological impact: A 264 sends a message in ODI cricket about intent and dominance.
Understanding the Full 264 Scorecard Details
When analysts study the 264 scorecard, they look beyond runs to patterns: dot-ball frequency, boundary distribution, scoring areas, and how Rohit rotated strike. The scorecard tells a story of efficiency — high scoring with relatively few wasted deliveries.
Practical takeaways from the scorecard for batsmen and coaches include:
- Strike rotation matters: Even with a heavy boundary count, singles and twos kept the rhythm and reduced psychological pressure.
- Calculated aggression: Picking the right balls to punish made the innings sustainable for long periods.
- Fitness and concentration: Batting a long innings requires both physical stamina and sustained mental focus.
Lessons for Players: Tips Inspired by the 264
Rohit’s 264 is a teaching tool. Here are practical tips players can extract from that innings:
- Start smart: Use the early overs to gauge conditions, then accelerate as confidence grows.
- Rotate and wait: Don’t go for every boundary — rotate strike to keep momentum.
- Pick targets: Aim for regular milestones (50s, 100s) to maintain focus during long innings.
- Fitness focus: Endurance training helps sustain intensity across 50 overs.
Comparisons: Rohit’s Other Double Centuries and Historical Placement
Rohit’s 264 sits alongside other double centuries he scored in ODI cricket. Comparing these innings — for example, his earlier 209 and subsequent 208* — shows a player who mastered the art of converting a big start into colossal runs. The 264 is unique because of the volume and relative efficiency; it remains the highest individual ODI score against the backdrop of all ODI cricket.
Historic comparisons also include mentions of earlier double centuries and the first players who passed 200 — contextualizing how ODI batting evolved over time to allow such an achievement.
FAQs: Common Questions About the Rohit Sharma 264 Scorecard
1. What are the exact numbers in the Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard?
Rohit scored 264 runs off 173 balls, including 33 fours and 9 sixes. The innings had a high strike rate and contributed to a large team total that shaped the match result.
2. Against which team did Rohit score 264 and where?
The innings came against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens in Kolkata during an India vs Sri Lanka ODI. The venue and conditions played well for the batting side on that day.
3. Is 264 still the highest individual ODI score?
Yes. The 264 remains the highest individual ODI score in international cricket, setting a standard for future big innings.
4. How does the 264 compare to other double centuries in ODIs?
Rohit’s 264 not only exceeds most double centuries but also stands out for the combination of volume and strike rate. Compared to other double centuries, it is the most prolific single-innings output in ODI history.
5. What can young batsmen learn from the 264 innings?
Key lessons include disciplined shot selection, rotating strike, building partnerships, and maintaining fitness and concentration. The innings demonstrates how controlled aggression and smart cricketing decisions yield big rewards.
Conclusion
The Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard is an iconic chapter in ODI history. Beyond the sheer numbers, it teaches lessons about technique, temperament, and match awareness. Whether you’re dissecting batting stats, studying record-breaking innings, or simply enjoying cricketing excellence, Rohit’s 264 is an evergreen example of how a modern opener can dominate a 50-over game. The innings remains a benchmark for aspiring batsmen and a proud highlight in India vs Sri Lanka cricket narratives.
Note: This article provided an in-depth look at the scorecard, batting technique, records, and practical lessons so readers can appreciate both the numbers and the cricketing craft behind Rohit Sharma’s historic 264.