How Rohit Sharma's journey began in inaugural T20 World Cup
What's the story
In 2024, Rohit Sharma became the second Indian captain to win the ICC T20 World Cup. Under him, India lifted the trophy unbeaten. Rohit, who featured in all nine editions, first made a mark with India's title-winning side in 2007. His impactful knocks in the middle order made him a clutch player in the inaugural edition. Here's how Rohit fared in that tournament.
Debut
Rohit made his debut against England
Rohit made his maiden T20 World Cup appearance at 20, becoming the youngest Indian to do so at that time. He also made his T20I debut in the very tournament. It was India's group-stage clash against England in the 2007 edition, where Rohit didn't get to bat. The game is remembered for Yuvraj Singh's 6 sixes in an over off Stuart Broad.
Knock
Rohit shines in his maiden innings
The very next match gave Rohit a chance to showcase his heroics. It was a must-win group match against South Africa. In his first-ever innings, Rohit smashed an unbeaten 50 (40), guiding India to victory from a spot of bother in Durban. Batting first, India were down to 61/4 before he took them to 153/5 alongside MS Dhoni. SA were later restricted to 116/9.
Final
Impactful knock in big final
Rohit won skipper Dhoni's trust once he fired South Africa. The former mattered for India in the big final against Pakistan in Johannesburg. India, who set a 158-run target, faltered during the middle overs. Rohit joined in at 111/4 and powered India with an unbeaten 30-run cameo. His 16-ball knock made a difference as India won by five runs.
Legacy
Rohit's legacy!
Cut to 2026, Rohit is now the brand ambassador of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Well past his T20I career, Rohit powered India to the silverware in 2024. He retired with the most T20I runs at that time. Rohit is still the only player with 200-plus sixes in the format. He is also the second-highest run-scorer in T20 WC history.