Rohit Sharma becomes fourth Indian player to complete 20000 international runs

New Delhi: Indian veteran Rohit Sharma scripted history on Saturday after he became the fourth Indian batter to complete 20000 runs in international cricket. Rohit achieved the milestone by scoring his 27th run during the third and final ODI match against South Africa in Vizag.

Entering into the game, Rohit had 19973 in his kitty and the veteran player started off India's chase of 271 runs on a confident note along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, smashing few boundaries and racing to his 27th run which earned him a big record and added him in the elite list of players.

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The list is headed by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and also has the likes of Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid in it, who are both rated as one of the best-ever players in Indian cricket.

34357 - Sachin Tendulkar

27910 - Virat Kohli

24208 - Rahul Dravid

20000 - Rohit Sharma

Meanwhile, after reaching the landmark, Rohit also managed to complete another half-century in the 50-over format. Together with Jaiswal, he recorded India's 10th 100-plus opening partnership against South Africa in ODIs. It was the first since 127 between Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan in their Champions Trophy 2013 opener in Cardiff.

Also, this was the 35th time that Rohit has been involved in a century stand for the first wicket in ODIs, a number only exceeded by Sachin Tendulkar (40). Meanwhile, Rohit failed to complete his 34th ODI century as he was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj on 75 off 73 balls.

The right-handed batter slammed seven boundaries and three massive sixes enroute his special knock which laid the perfect base for the Men in Blue in the chase. India look on course of a big win in the match and with the series currently level at 1-1, they ought to emerge as the winners with only a magic from Proteas that can prevent them.