Rohit Sharma transformed a warm December afternoon in Jaipur into a display of batting excellence, showcasing his talent as he has done across various formats and venues — entertaining crowds with his effortless dominance. From the moment he stepped out, it was evident that this match was more than just a routine domestic game. His swivel pulls, clean lofted hits down the ground, and audacious sweeps against Sikkim’s fast bowlers came with ease, much to the delight of fans in the Pink City who enjoyed a memorable Christmas Eve spectacle.
Despite it being a working day, over 20,000 spectators flocked to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, choosing live cricket over offices, classrooms, and daily routines. With free entry and the chance to watch one of India’s
biggest stars, the decision was simple. Rohit’s 155 off just 93 balls — his 37th List A century — was not only a masterclass in strokeplay but also a reminder of why he remains one of the most beloved cricketers in the country. The innings felt like a live concert, where fans watched their favourite performer deliver hit after hit without concerning themselves with context, selection debates, or larger narratives.
This was not about a BCCI directive or addressing critics, nor was it about a coach attempting to “abolish star culture.” Instead, it was about a star and his fans. By the time Rohit walked back, having struck 18 fours and nine sixes, the crowd had been fully rewarded for their devotion.
Long before the toss, the area around the stadium was bustling. By 9 am, the roads leading to the venue were packed, highlighting just how deeply star power is ingrained in Indian cricket culture.
As chants of “Mumbai chaa Rajaa Rohit Sharma” echoed across the stands, fans craned their necks for a glimpse of their hero. When it was announced that Mumbai would bowl first, some spectators briefly left the ground, hoping Sikkim would score enough runs to give Rohit ample time at the crease. Others expressed their sentiments with loud calls of “Gambhir kidhar hai, dekh raha hai na?”, possibly aimed at selector R.P. Singh, who was present near the boundary.
Fans on social media, too voiced their support and admiration:
Gautam Gambhir watching Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli today #VijayHazareTrophy pic.twitter.com/LE4iQXt5TQ
— wondering 🔭 (@Sportingco30) December 24, 2025
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli fans today in TIMELINE…
NOTE – they should thank Gambhir and Agarkar for this..
pic.twitter.com/bmwOJGZOwP— ????????10 (@Loyalsachfan10) December 24, 2025
The man, the myth, the legend🔥🔥🔥
Rohit Gurunath Sharma.
155(94) 4=18. 6=9 pic.twitter.com/FVQf86w5p7— Nitin singh (@nitinnnn045) December 24, 2025
🚨 Rohit Sharma scored 155 Runs
in just 94 Balls in VHT ’25-’26
against mighty Australia 🔥 https://t.co/30owapIXaS pic.twitter.com/l1zxU0u72I— Wren (@vyomanaut02) December 24, 2025
Class is permanent..
Rohit Sharma slams a hundred in Vijay Hazare — pure dominance.
2027 World Cup mode: ON 💣#RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/UBXxpS1ku6— Ashvin Mishra Bharat (@ashvinmisra) December 24, 2025
Once Sikkim reached a competitive 236 for seven, the stadium filled to capacity. Fans even risked uncomfortable seating positions atop nearby buildings, unwilling to miss a moment. While Angkrish Raghuvanshi struggled to win over the crowd, Rohit needed only one authoritative swivel pull off Kranthi Kumar to elevate the noise levels. Sikkim’s bowlers looked overwhelmed, delivering loose balls that Rohit punished with ease, even sweeping a seamer behind square.
His century came in just 62 balls, followed swiftly by a 150 off 91 deliveries. When a tired shot finally ended his innings, fans slowly began to leave, satisfied. As the noise faded, one final chant rang out across the ground: “Dal Baati Choorma, Rohit Sharma Soorma.” The Hitman show had concluded for the day, but with another match on the horizon, Jaipur is eagerly anticipating the next sold-out performance.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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