Hitman’s dominion: Rohit overtakes Afridi, sets sights on Gayle’s all-format milestone

WELLINGTON: Indian batter Rohit Sharma has set a new record for the most sixes in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) against New Zealand. Rohit surpassed former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi by hitting two sixes in the second ODI against the Black Caps. He now holds the record for the most sixes against New Zealand in the 50-over format.

Rohit scored 23 off 28 balls, including two fours and two sixes, in the match at Hnry Stadium. His tally of sixes against New Zealand in ODIs consequently rose to 51 in 34 innings. Afridi is second on the list with 50 sixes from 35 innings. West Indies legend Chris Gayle occupies third place with 45 sixes. Sanath Jayasuriya (41), Jos Buttler and Virat Kohli (29 each) complete the list.

Meanwhile, Rohit is also closing in on Gayle's record for the most sixes against New Zealand across all formats of international cricket. Gayle has hit 87 sixes against New Zealand across the three formats, while Rohit is just behind with 85. Afridi is third with 64 sixes, followed by Eoin Morgan (53) and Fakhar Zaman (52).

India won the rain-affected second ODI by four runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Batting first, New Zealand were bowled out for 134. Gurnoor Brar was the standout performer for India, claiming four wickets for 30 runs in his 10 overs. Daryl Mitchell was New Zealand's top scorer with 55 off 104 balls.
In reply, India were 113 for seven in 26 overs when rain brought play to a halt. India were marginally ahead under the DLS calculation and were subsequently declared winners by four runs.

India had won the first ODI by five wickets and continued their dominance in the series.