A day to remember: On June 23, India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma paused to reflect on a remarkable journey that began exactly 18 years ago. With an Instagram post, he celebrated the anniversary of his international debut in Belfast, when a young Rohit first donned the Indian jersey.
Known as the "Hitman", Rohit’s evolution from a promising youngster into India’s white-ball legend is a story for the ages.
That date, June 23, 2007, might not ring bells for casual followers. But in Belfast, against Ireland, Rohit Sharma first walked out in the Indian jersey. He did not get a chance to bat that day. But it was the start of something far greater than anyone could have predicted. The long road from that moment to becoming the captain of India’s national team is filled with performances that fans will remember for generations.
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Rohit Sharma Remembers His International Debut
Rohit took to his Instagram story to share a picture of his Team India helmet, with the caption, "Forever grateful 23.06.07." The post was a quiet nod to where it all began.
That date marks his ODI debut for India, back in 2007 against Ireland in Belfast. Just a few months later, he featured in his first T20I on September 19 the same year versus England. His Test debut, however, came much later on November 6, 2013 at Eden Gardens against the West Indies.
After his debut, it took a few years for him to truly establish himself. His transformation into a reliable match-winner began in 2013, when he was promoted to open the batting in ODIs. What followed was an explosion of runs, centuries and double hundreds.
With over 11,000 runs in ODIs and more than 4,000 in T20Is, Rohit cemented himself as one of the greats in white-ball cricket.
In Tests, too, Rohit grew into a dependable opener. Under his captaincy, India won the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Rohit Targeting ODI World Cup 2027 After T20I and Test Retirements
The 38-year-old retired from the T20I format after India lifted the World Cup in 2024. With runs not by his side, Rohit had to hang up his boots in Test cricket as well.
However, Rohit now has his eyes set at the ODI World Cup 2027. He has made it clear that he wants to play that tournament. It would not be easy but knowing Rohit, he thrives on challenges.
