Social media buzz: Rohit Sharma posts emotional Instagram story; celebrates 18 years of international cricket

Rohit Sharma, the dynamic captain of the Indian ODI team, has commemorated his 18th year in international cricket with a heartfelt Instagram Story. The celebrated right-handed batsman made his debut for India on June 23 against Ireland in Belfast.

In his Instagram Story, Sharma expressed his gratitude, writing, "Forever grateful 23.06.07," in reference to his debut date. Although he didn't get a chance to bat in that particular match, as India secured a victory with nine wickets to spare, it marked the beginning of an illustrious career.

Rohit has since become an indispensable player for the Indian cricket team, leading the squad to numerous achievements, including the 2024 T20 World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy earlier in the year.

The 38-year-old has retired from Tests and T20I cricket, having played 67 matches in the longest format and 159 in the shortest. He has amassed 4301 Test runs, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, with an average of 40.57.

His performance in white-ball cricket has been even more remarkable. In 159 T20I matches, he has scored 4231 runs, featuring five centuries and 32 half-centuries. In 273 ODIs, he has accumulated 11,168 runs, including 32 centuries and 58 half-centuries, boasting an impressive average of 48.76.

Having retired from Test cricket last month, Rohit is currently not participating in the ongoing India tour of England series. His next appearance is anticipated in the series against Bangladesh in August.