India’s captain Rohit Sharma has created history by becoming the fastest opener to reach 9,000 ODI runs. He achieved this record in just 181 innings, surpassing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly. This feat came during a high-intensity Champions Trophy 2025 clash against Pakistan.
- Rohit Sharma is the fastest to 9,000 ODI runs as an opener.
- He surpassed Tendulkar, Ganguly, Gayle, and Gilchrist.
- His record came in just 181 innings.
5. Adam Gilchrist (253 Innings)
The Australian wicketkeeper-batter was known for his aggressive strokeplay. He reached the 9,000-run mark in 253 innings.
Gilchrist’s ODI Stats:
- Matches as an opener: 259
- Runs: 9,200
- Average: 36.51
- Centuries: 16, Half-centuries: 53
- Highest Score: 172
- Strike Rate: 98.03
Gilchrist redefined opening batting, using fearless hitting to dominate attacks. His performances in World Cups cemented his legacy.
4. Chris Gayle (246 Innings)
The Universe Boss was famous for his power-hitting and six-hitting ability. He reached the milestone in 246 innings.
Gayle’s ODI Stats:
- Matches as an opener: 274
- Runs: 10,179
- Average: 39.45
- Centuries: 25, Half-centuries: 53
- Highest Score: 215
- Strike Rate: 88.02
Gayle’s attacking style made him a nightmare for bowlers. He could change the game in just a few overs.
3. Sourav Ganguly (231 Innings)
India’s Dada played stylish yet gritty cricket. He reached 9,000 ODI runs in 231 innings.
Ganguly’s ODI Stats:
- Matches as an opener: 236
- Runs: 9,146
- Average: 41.57
- Centuries: 19, Half-centuries: 58
- Strike Rate: 73.59
Ganguly was instrumental in India’s rise in ODI cricket. He formed a legendary opening partnership with Sachin Tendulkar.
2. Sachin Tendulkar (197 Innings)
The Master Blaster dominated world cricket and was the fastest to reach this milestone before Rohit.
Tendulkar’s ODI Stats:
- Matches as an opener: 340
- Runs: 15,310
- Average: 48.30
- Centuries: 45, Half-centuries: 75
- Strike Rate: 88.05
Tendulkar’s technical brilliance helped him score runs across all conditions. His records stood unchallenged for years.
1. Rohit Sharma (181 Innings)
In Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit Sharma broke records by becoming the fastest opener to 9,000 ODI runs.
Rohit’s ODI Stats:
- Matches as an opener: 181
- Runs: 9,019
- Average: 54.99
- Centuries: 30, Half-centuries: 54
- Strike Rate: Balanced between control and aggression
In his record-breaking match against Pakistan, Rohit gave India a quick start, scoring 20 off 15 balls. His ability to pace an innings and dominate bowlers makes him one of the best openers in modern cricket.
Comparison : Fastest to 9,000 ODI Runs as an Opener
| Rank | Player | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rohit Sharma | 181 | 9,019 | 54.99 | Balanced | 30 |
| 2 | Sachin Tendulkar | 197 | 15,310 | 48.30 | 88.05 | 45 |
| 3 | Sourav Ganguly | 231 | 9,146 | 41.57 | 73.59 | 19 |
| 4 | Chris Gayle | 246 | 10,179 | 39.45 | 88.02 | 25 |
| 5 | Adam Gilchrist | 253 | 9,200 | 36.51 | 98.03 | 16 |
Rohit Sharma’s latest achievement further solidifies his legacy. He has redefined opening batting with a perfect mix of aggression and consistency. As he continues to break records, he remains a role model for young cricketers worldwide.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
