IndiaThe much-awaited three-match ODI series against afghanistan Starting on June 13, and one name continues to dominate the conversation ahead of the competition – Rohit Sharma. The former Indian captain has built a reputation as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all-time, and fans will be hoping to see another trademark century from the experienced opener.
With favorable conditions, an impressive record against Afghanistan and a renewed focus on the 50-over format, signs seem to point towards a significant contribution from the “Hitman”. Here are some reasons why supporters can see Rohit raising his bat for a century during the upcoming series.
3 reasons why fans can see Rohit Sharma score a century in the ODI series
1) Excellent record against Afghanistan
Few teams have found a way to contain Rohit as effectively as Afghanistan have wanted to in the last few years. The Indian opener has delivered memorable performances against them time and again, making him one of the most dangerous batsmen in this particular match.
One of the extraordinary innings came during the 2023 ODI World Cup when Rohit played a breathtaking inning of 131 runs off just 84 balls. His aggressive approach dismantled Afghanistan’s bowling attack and demonstrated his ability to dominate both pace and spin right from the start.
Even beyond ODIs, Rohit has continuously troubled Afghanistan’s bowlers. His unbeaten century in a thrilling T20I contest in early 2024 further highlighted his comfort against the attack. Be it facing fast bowlers with the new ball or facing good spinners in the middle overs, Rohit has often looked in complete control.
That history could give him a huge psychological edge in the series. Once he settles down at the crease, it may be difficult for Afghanistan to stop him from converting a promising start into a match-deciding innings.
2) Conditions may suit his batting style
The venues chosen for the ODI series appear to suit Rohit’s strengths as a top-order batsman. The opening match in Dharamshala is expected to provide good bounce and carry, such conditions traditionally favor stroke makers. Rohit’s ability to pull and hook short balls is one of the best in world cricket, making this venue an ideal platform for him to play his natural game.
The second ODI in Lucknow can also go in their favor. Recent matches at the venue have shown a noticeable change towards better batting conditions, allowing top-order batsmen to spend time at the crease and produce big innings.
As an opening batsman, Rohit has the advantage of facing the maximum number of overs available. If he successfully overcomes the initial movement with the new ball, he will have every chance to settle down and play a long innings. Given his history of converting starts into centuries, batting-friendly surfaces could significantly increase his chances of reaching three figures.
3) Fresh and focused on ODI cricket
Another factor working in Rohit’s favor is his commitment to the ODI format. After stepping away from T20I and Test cricket, the 39-year-old can dedicate his preparation and workload almost entirely to one format. This allows him to focus on maintaining peak fitness, refining his game plan and ensuring that he remains a key figure in India’s preparations for the next ODI World Cup.
The Afghanistan series is also an important phase of his comeback after recovering from a hamstring problem. ipl 2026. A fully fit Rohit will be keen to regain momentum and gain valuable time in the middle. With major milestones approaching and another World Cup campaign on the horizon, there will certainly be no shortage of motivation. Fresh and focused on ODIs, Rohit has often displayed his best cricket and Afghanistan could be the next team to see another masterclass from the Indian captain.
Also read: Abhishek Nair chose India’s playing eleven for the first ODI against Afghanistan
