Six-hitting in One Day International (ODI) cricket is the ultimate display of power and timing. Indian stadiums, with their electrifying crowds and often batsman-friendly pitches, have witnessed some of the most memorable sixes in ODI history. Let’s explore the records and stories behind the highest sixes in ODIs by Indian players and within India.
Rohit Sharma: India’s Six-Hitting Maestro
Rohit Sharma stands as the undisputed king of sixes in Indian ODI cricket. As of 2025, he has hit more sixes in ODIs than any other Indian, and is among the top six-hitters globally. Sharma’s six-hitting prowess is not just about brute force but a blend of timing, elegance, and shot selection.
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- Rohit Sharma has smashed 344 sixes in ODIs, making him the Indian with the most sixes in the format. Some sources even cite his tally as high as 344–344+ sixes, reflecting ongoing achievements in recent matches.
- He recently surpassed Chris Gayle to become the second-highest six-hitter in ODI history, trailing only behind Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi, who holds the all-time record with 351 sixes.
Most Sixes in an ODI Innings in India
While career records are impressive, single-innings feats are legendary. Rohit Sharma again features prominently:
- Rohit Sharma holds the Indian record for most sixes in a single ODI innings, blasting 16 sixes during his monumental 209 against Australia in Bengaluru on November 2, 2013.
- This performance is among the top globally, with only Eoin Morgan (17 sixes) surpassing it in a single ODI innings.
Top Indian Six-Hitters in ODI History
Here’s a comparison of the leading Indian six-hitters in ODIs:
| Player | ODI Sixes | ODI Span |
|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 344+ | 2007–2025 |
| MS Dhoni | 229 | 2004–2019 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 195 | 1989–2012 |
| Sourav Ganguly | 190 | 1992–2007 |
| Yuvraj Singh | 155 | 2000–2017 |
Note: Numbers may vary slightly due to ongoing matches and updates.
What Makes Rohit Sharma Special?
Rohit’s six-hitting is marked by:
- Consistency: He clears the ropes in all conditions, against both pace and spin.
- Big Match Temperament: Many of his sixes come in high-pressure situations, including World Cups and series deciders.
- Record-Breaking Innings: His 209 and other double centuries have redefined the art of six-hitting in ODIs.
Six-Hitting in Indian Stadiums
Indian grounds, known for their shorter boundaries and enthusiastic crowds, have been the stage for many six-hitting spectacles. Players like Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, and Yuvraj Singh have repeatedly thrilled fans with their power-hitting displays.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s dominance in ODI six-hitting, both in terms of career totals and single-innings heroics, has set new benchmarks for Indian cricket. His ability to consistently clear the boundary has not only entertained millions but also inspired a new generation of aggressive batsmen. As ODI cricket evolves, the pursuit of sixes will continue to be a defining feature, with Indian players leading the charge.
