London, July 20: Rohit Sharma’s memorable century at Lord’s during the third ODI against England carried a special story behind it. The Indian captain scored a magnificent 138 off 110 balls using a bat gifted to him by longtime Mumbai and India teammate Shardul Thakur.
India fell 27 runs short while chasing England’s imposing target of 388, losing the three-match ODI series 2-1. However, Rohit’s brilliant knock, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, reaffirmed his class amid ongoing speculation about his ODI future.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Thakur revealed that Rohit had requested a couple of bats after admiring the quality of the willow supplied to him by SS Bats owner Jatin Sareen.
“I am signed with SS Bats, and Jatin Sareen has always sent me excellent bats. Rohit asked me for a couple because he really liked them. We all love Rohit for the joy he has given Indian cricket, so there was never any question of refusing. I’m delighted that he scored a historic hundred at Lord’s with one of my bats,” Thakur said.
The bond between the two Mumbai cricketers goes back to their school days. They have represented Mumbai in domestic cricket and also shared the dressing room at Mumbai Indians in the IPL.
Rohit’s century was his highest ODI score at the iconic Lord’s and came at a crucial stage, with his international future under discussion. Although India could not complete the record chase, the veteran opener’s innings served as a reminder of his enduring quality and determination, sending a strong message ahead of the team’s upcoming assignments.
