Quick Answer: Yes! Rohit Sharma has reached the number 1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings following his magnificent unbeaten 121 against Australia in the third ODI at Sydney Cricket Ground on October 25, 2025. This career-defining achievement comes after a stellar performance that showcased the 38-year-old captain's enduring class in international cricket.
Rohit Sharma Reaches Top of ICC ODI Rankings: Historic Achievement
Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 121 runs off 115 balls in the third ODI against Australia at Sydney has propelled him to the pinnacle of ODI batting rankings for the first time in his illustrious career. The Indian opener's ninth century against Australia came at the perfect moment, silencing critics and retirement speculation while cementing his legacy as one of the greatest white-ball batsmen of all time.
This achievement is particularly significant as it represents the culmination of decades of consistent excellence in the 50-over format. The "Hitman" has been knocking on the door of the top ranking for years, and his recent performances have finally secured him the coveted number one spot.
Match-Winning Performance: Sydney ODI October 25, 2025
The SCG witnessed a masterclass from both Rohit Sharma (121 not out) and Virat Kohli (74 not out) as they chased down Australia's 236 with an unbroken 168-run partnership. The nine-wicket victory may have been just a consolation for India after losing the series 2-1, but for Rohit personally, it was a statement performance.
Rohit's century came from 105 balls and included trademark shots like an inside-out lofted drive for six against Adam Zampa and a powerful slog sweep. Despite the understated celebration - just a gentle drive to long-off and a wave of the bat - the innings spoke volumes about his temperament and skill.
Rohit Sharma ODI Career Statistics and Records
With his century in the third ODI, Rohit Sharma finished as the highest run-scorer in the three-match series with 202 runs, demonstrating remarkable consistency throughout the tour. His overall ODI statistics are nothing short of phenomenal:
33 ODI centuries (9th against Australia)
59 ODI fifties
Over 11,249 ODI runs, making him India's third-highest run-scorer in ODIs
Became India's highest run-scorer as an opener in ODIs, surpassing Sourav Ganguly's 9,195 runs
First Indian batter to score 1,000 ODI runs against Australia on their home soil (1,071 runs at an average of 56.36)
How Do ICC ODI Batting Rankings Work?
The ICC ODI batting rankings are calculated using a sophisticated algorithm that considers multiple factors:
Match impact: Performance in high-pressure situations and match-winning contributions
Quality of opposition: Runs scored against stronger bowling attacks carry more weight
Recent form: Latest performances have greater influence on current rankings
Consistency: Regular contributions across different conditions and venues
Strike rate and average: Both metrics are balanced to reward effective batting
Rohit's journey to number one reflects consistent excellence across all these parameters, particularly his ability to perform against top-quality bowling attacks in challenging conditions.
Rohit Sharma vs Top ODI Batsmen: Rankings Comparison 2025
Following the October 25 match, the top ODI batting rankings landscape has shifted dramatically:
Current Top 5 ICC ODI Batsmen Rankings:
Rohit Sharma (India) - 38 years old
Shubman Gill (India) - Previously held #1 spot
Virat Kohli (India) - Went second on the all-time ODI runscorers list behind only Sachin Tendulkar
Babar Azam (Pakistan) - Former #1 ranked player
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)
India's dominance in ODI batting is evident with three players in the top five positions, showcasing the depth of talent in the Indian lineup.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: The "Ro-Ko" Partnership Legacy
Virat Kohli reflected on their partnership legacy, saying "It all started in 2013 vs Australia, in the ODIs at home. They also know that games are sealed if we batted 20 overs together". This sentiment encapsulates the fear they instill in opposition teams when both are at the crease.
The Sydney partnership was likely their final stand together in Australia, making it even more poignant for cricket fans worldwide. With more than 26,000 ODI runs between them, the pair finished with an unbroken stand of 168 from 170 balls, demonstrating their enduring chemistry.
Will Rohit Sharma Play the 2027 ODI World Cup?
At 38 years old, questions about Rohit Sharma's future naturally arise. However, his recent performances suggest he still has plenty to offer. After the match, Rohit said "Don't know if we'll be coming back to Australia. We enjoy our cricket no matter what accolades we achieve", leaving his future ambiguous.
The 2027 ODI World Cup remains a possibility if he maintains his current form and fitness levels. His leadership experience and ability to perform in crucial matches make him invaluable to the Indian team's World Cup aspirations.
Rohit Sharma Australia Record: Dominance Down Under
Rohit Sharma has scored 9,219 runs in 186 innings as an opener in ODI cricket at an average of 54.55 with 30 centuries and 46 fifties. His record in Australia specifically is even more impressive, with consistent performances across multiple tours.
Rohit also became the seventh Indian to complete 100 catches in ODIs during the Sydney match, joining an elite club that includes Virat Kohli, Mohammad Azharuddin, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Suresh Raina, and Sourav Ganguly.
Shubman Gill Current ODI Ranking and Future Prospects
While Rohit has overtaken him, Shubman Gill remains at #2 in the ODI rankings and represents India's future. The 25-year-old has been groomed for leadership and recently captained India in this series. His consistency and technique suggest he'll be battling for the top spot for years to come.
The friendly rivalry between these two opening partners only strengthens India's batting lineup, providing depth and competition that benefits the team.
Conclusion: Rohit Sharma's Legacy at Number One
Rohit Sharma's ascent to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings represents the pinnacle of a career defined by grace, power, and consistency. From his debut in 2007 to this historic achievement in 2025, the journey has been marked by evolution, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Whether this marks the beginning of a sustained period at the top or a brief moment in the twilight of an illustrious career remains to be seen. What's certain is that Rohit Sharma has earned his place among the all-time greats of ODI cricket, and his number one ranking is a testament to nearly two decades of extraordinary performances.
For fans searching for "Rohit Sharma ODI ranking," "ICC ODI rankings 2025," or "Rohit Sharma number 1 batsman," this achievement represents a crowning moment in one of cricket's most beloved careers. The Hitman has finally hit the top.