Watch: Highlights of Rohit Sharma’s record-breaking innings

Rohit Sharma is sheer class in the ODI format. From time to time, he has stamped his authority as one of the best limited-overs specialist.

The first half of the series opener against Australia was dominated by Rohit Sharma and his sublime innings of 171*. Sharma was at his best today. India suffered a early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan but Sharma was unaffected and batted brilliantly to dominate the Australian bowling attack. He displayed his wide variety of strokes was never uncomfortable in the middle.

The chants of Rohit…Rohit began to get louder at the WACA as he was nearing his century. Finally, he steered Joel Paris for a single to reach the triple figures mark, 9th of his career. His century came off 122 deliveries. Rohit pushed the pedal and accelerated his innings thereafter to reach the 150 runs milestone in the 48th overs with a six and a single. It took him just 30 balls to reach there after the century. Sharma, eventually finished with 171 runs off 163 balls and took India to 309/3 after the end of fifty overs. His knock included 13 boundaries and 7 majestic sixes.

In this process, Rohit Sharma also made himself the batsman with most number of sixes in ODIs against Australia. Virat Kohli, who made 91 off 97 balls also played a significant role in his innings as he provided him with the perfect support for major part of the game. However, his knock went in vain as Steve Smith (149 off 135 balls) overshadowed him with his inspiring performance to guide Australia to a five-wicket victory.

Watch: Highlights of Rohit Sharma’s record-breaking innings:

Rohit Sharma’s SIXES during his innings today. #AUSvINDpic.twitter.com/LNSnd8YAAm

— Sampath (@SAMPATH_B24) January 12, 2016

Did he just invent a new shot? – Watch: Rohit Sharma’s mistimed scoop almost goes for a six