Cricket history is dotted with moments of sheer brilliance, but few innings stand out as monumental as Rohit Sharma's 264 against Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens in November 2014. This colossal score, etched into the annals of One Day International (ODI) cricket, is more than just a number; it's a testament to Rohit Sharma's unparalleled ability to dominate the bowling attack and set new benchmarks. For cricket enthusiasts looking to relive this spectacular performance, accessing the detailed Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz provides the most comprehensive and accessible record. This article delves into the intricacies of that unforgettable innings, its significance, and why a detailed examination, like the one found on Cricbuzz, is so crucial for understanding its impact.

The Genesis of a Record: Setting the Stage

The 2014 ODI series between India and Sri Lanka was already a testament to India's formidable batting lineup. However, the third ODI at Kolkata's Eden Gardens was destined for something extraordinary. The pitch, known for its batting-friendly nature, was ripe for a big score. Rohit Sharma, who had already established himself as a destructive opener, was in sublime form. The atmosphere was electric, with the Indian crowd eager to witness their team's dominance. The stage was set for Rohit to unleash his full potential, a potential that had been brewing for some time. This innings wasn't just about runs; it was about a batsman at the peak of his powers, dictating terms to a world-class bowling attack.

Decoding the Rohit Sharma 264 Scorecard on Cricbuzz

When fans search for the Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz, they are seeking more than just the final score. They want a granular breakdown of how those runs were accumulated. Cricbuzz, being a leading platform for cricket scores and analysis, delivers precisely that. The scorecard typically reveals:

• Balls Faced: Understanding the duration of the innings is crucial. Rohit faced an incredible 256 balls, showcasing remarkable stamina and concentration.
• Runs Scored: The headline figure, 264, a world record for the highest individual score in ODIs at the time.
• Boundaries: The sheer number of fours and sixes speaks volumes about Rohit's aggressive yet controlled batting. His innings featured 33 fours and an astounding 9 sixes.
• Strike Rate: While his score was monumental, his strike rate of 103.12 demonstrates his ability to score quickly without reckless abandon.
• Partnerships: The scorecard often details partnerships with other batsmen, highlighting how Rohit either anchored the innings or accelerated the scoring alongside his partners.
• Milestones Achieved: From his century to his double century and beyond, the progression of his score, often marked by specific ball counts, is a fascinating aspect to observe.

This level of detail allows fans to appreciate the nuances of the innings, understanding the phases of play, the moments of consolidation, and the periods of aggressive onslaught. The Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz provides a clear narrative of his journey from a good start to an unprecedented milestone.

The Batting Masterclass: Shot Selection and Strategy

Rohit Sharma's 264 wasn't merely about hitting the ball hard. It was a display of varied strokeplay, strategic shot selection, and immense mental fortitude. Analysing the scorecard and related match commentary, one can infer several key aspects of his batting approach:

• Building an Innings: Rohit didn't start by smashing every ball. He played himself in, understood the conditions, and then gradually escalated his aggression. The initial overs likely saw him playing along the ground and finding gaps.
• Dominance Against Spin and Pace: The scorecard would indirectly reflect his comfort against different bowling types. His ability to find boundaries against both pacers and spinners is legendary, and this innings was no exception.
• The Power of Sixes: The nine sixes underscore his phenomenal power-hitting. These weren't just lofted shots; many were well-timed and placed shots that sailed over the boundary ropes.
• Handling Pressure: As the score grew, so did the expectations. Rohit's ability to remain calm and focused under such intense scrutiny is a hallmark of his character.
• Exploiting the Field: Understanding the field placings and exploiting the gaps was crucial. His intelligent placement of the ball, not just brute force, contributed significantly to his massive score.

The Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz is a record of these strategic decisions and execution, allowing viewers to dissect his approach ball by ball, over by over.

Records Shattered and Significance of the 264

The 264 by Rohit Sharma was a watershed moment in ODI cricket. It shattered the previous record of 219 held by Virender Sehwag and established a new benchmark for individual scores. The significance of this innings extends beyond the record books:

• Inspiration for Future Generations: It demonstrated that such monumental scores are achievable, inspiring young cricketers to dream big and push their limits.
• Validation of Rohit's Potential: While Rohit was already a star, this innings solidified his status as one of the all-time greats in limited-overs cricket. It was a definitive statement of his capabilities.
• Impact on Team Strategy: It highlighted the immense value of a well-set batsman playing a long innings at the top of the order, a strategy that many teams have tried to emulate since.
• Entertainment Value: For fans, it was a day of unparalleled entertainment, witnessing a batting spectacle that is rarely seen.

Every time a search for the Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz is made, it's a testament to the enduring impact and memory of this extraordinary innings.

The Eden Gardens Factor and Historical Context

The Eden Gardens has always been a happy hunting ground for Indian batsmen, particularly in ODIs. Its expansive boundaries, coupled with a generally good batting surface, can lead to high scores. However, Rohit Sharma's 264 transcended the typical Eden Gardens 'big score'. It was an innings of sustained dominance that showcased his exceptional skill and temperament. When comparing this to other high scores at the venue, Rohit's innings stands out for its sheer longevity and the volume of runs accumulated.

Historically, the highest individual scores in ODIs have often come from batsmen who were in peak form, playing on favorable pitches, and against bowling attacks that couldn't contain them. Rohit's 264 fits this description perfectly. It was a confluence of personal form, conducive conditions, and a less-than-effective bowling performance from Sri Lanka, though it's crucial to acknowledge the immense skill required to capitalize on such opportunities.

Beyond the Numbers: What the Scorecard Tells Us

The Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz is a document that tells a story. It's a story of perseverance, skill, and the audacious ambition of a batsman at his absolute best. Looking at the flow of runs, one can imagine the rhythm of the innings. Were there phases where he was tested? Did he accelerate dramatically after reaching milestones? These are questions that a detailed scorecard helps answer.

Furthermore, it provides context for his career. This innings is often cited as a defining moment, a career-defining performance that elevated his status. It’s a reference point for his batting prowess, his ability to convert starts into massive scores, and his unique talent for playing long, impactful innings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q1: What is the highest individual score in ODI cricket?

A1: As of my last update, Rohit Sharma's 264 is the highest individual score in men's ODI cricket.

**Q2: Who held the record before Rohit Sharma's 264?

A2: Virender Sehwag held the previous record with 219.

**Q3: When and where did Rohit Sharma score 264?

A3: He scored 264 on November 13, 2014, at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, against Sri Lanka.

**Q4: What was Rohit Sharma's strike rate during his 264 innings?

A4: His strike rate was 103.12, having scored 264 runs off 256 balls.

**Q5: Can I find the full scorecard for Rohit Sharma's 264 innings on Cricbuzz?

A5: Yes, searching for the "Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz" will lead you to the detailed match scorecard on their platform.

Conclusion: A Legacy in Numbers

The Rohit Sharma 264 scorecard Cricbuzz is more than just a record of a cricket match; it's a portal to reliving one of the greatest individual performances in the history of the sport. It serves as a reminder of Rohit Sharma's extraordinary talent, his mental toughness, and his ability to redefine what's possible in cricket. For fans and aspiring cricketers alike, studying this innings, accessible through platforms like Cricbuzz, offers invaluable insights into the art of batting at its absolute finest. It is a performance that continues to inspire and captivate, a true masterpiece etched in the digital record of cricket.