India‘s highly anticipated three-match ODI series against Afghanistan It kicks off on June 13, and one name continues to dominate the conversation ahead of the pageant — Rohit Sharma. The former Indian captain has earned a reputation as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time and fans will be hoping to witness another trademark hundred from the veteran opener.
With favorable conditions, an impressive record against Afghanistan and a renewed focus on the 50-over format, signs point to a significant contribution from the ‘Hitman’. There are several reasons why fans can see Rohit raising his bat for a century during the upcoming series.
3 reasons why fans should see Rohit Sharma smash hundreds in ODI series
1) Excellent record against Afghanistan
Few teams have found a way to contain Rohit as effectively as Afghanistan have over the years. The Indian bowler has produced memorable performances against them time and time again, making him one of the most feared batsmen in this particular match.
One of the great innings came during the 2023 ODI World Cup when Rohit smashed 131 off just 84 deliveries. His aggressive approach dismantled Afghanistan’s bowling attack and showed his ability to dominate both pace and spin from the start.
Even outside the ODIs, Rohit was constantly troubling Afghanistan’s bowlers. His unbeaten century in a thrilling T20I contest at the start of 2024 further highlighted his ease against their attack. Whether facing seamers with the new ball or taking on quality spinners in the middle overs, Rohit has often been in complete control.
This history could give him a huge psychological advantage in the series. Once he settles into the crease, Afghanistan may find it difficult to prevent him from turning a promising start into a match-defining innings.
2) Conditions could have suited his batting style
The wickets chosen for the ODI series suit Rohit’s strengths as a top-order batsman. The opening match in Dharamshala is expected to offer good bounce and carry, conditions that traditionally favor batsmen. Rohit’s ability to pull and hook his short deliveries is one of the best in world cricket, making the venue an ideal stage to play his natural game.
The second ODI in Lucknow could also work in his favour. The recent matches on the field have shown a marked shift towards better batting conditions, which have allowed top-order batsmen to spend time at the crease and produce significant innings.
As an opener, Rohit enjoys the advantage of facing the maximum number of overs available. If he successfully negotiates early movement with the new ball, he will have every opportunity to settle in and set up a long shot. Given that his conversion history dates back centuries, hitting-friendly surfaces could significantly increase his chances of reaching triple figures.
3) Fresh and focuses on ODI cricket
Another factor working in Rohit’s favor is his commitment to the ODI format. Stepping away from T20I and Test cricket, the 39-year-old can devote his preparation and workload almost entirely to one format. This allows him to focus on maintaining peak fitness, improve his game plan and remain a key figure in India’s preparations for the next ODI World Cup.
The Afghanistan series also marks a milestone in his comeback after recovering from a nagging hamstring problem this term IPL 2026. A fully fit Rohit will be keen to gain momentum and spend valuable time in the middle. With big milestones looming and another World Cup campaign on the horizon, motivation will certainly not be lacking. A rejuvenated and ODI-focused Rohit has often produced some of his best cricket and Afghanistan could be the next team to witness another masterclass from the Indian captain.
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