Jos Buttler calls Rohit Sharma 'one of his all-time favourite players' after receiving signed jersey

File Pic: Rohit Sharma and Jos Buttler (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler shared a special moment with fans after receiving a signed Team India jersey from Rohit Sharma, calling the Indian opener "one of his all-time favourite players". Following the conclusion of the three-match ODI series between India and England, Buttler took to Instagram to post a picture of the signed shirt gifted by Rohit, expressing his admiration for the veteran batter despite being on opposite sides during the contest. Rohit also wrote a heartfelt message on the jersey: "Dear Jos, Loved my time playing with & against you." Sharing the image, Buttler wrote: "One opposition player's shirt I've always wanted. One of my all-time favourite players! Will treasure this; thank you, @rohitsharma45."

Rohit's Lord's masterclass leaves lasting impression

Rohit endured a difficult start to the ODI series, with his performances in the opening two matches raising questions over his future in the format ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. However, the Indian opener silenced his critics in trademark fashion in the series decider at Lord's, producing a breathtaking century during India's huge chase of 388. The knock marked Rohit's first international hundred at the iconic venue, widely regarded as the 'Home of Cricket'. The 138-run innings came in just 110 balls, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, and showcased the timing, elegance and class that have defined Rohit's illustrious ODI career. Although India fell short by 27 runs and lost the series 1-2, Rohit's partnership with long-time batting partner Virat Kohli thrilled the crowd at Lord's. Kohli contributed a fluent 74 off 60 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes. Rohit finished the series as India's leading run-scorer, amassing 175 runs in three matches at an average of 58.33 and a strike rate of 98.31, including one century.

Rohit's ODI legacy continues

The 39-year-old former captain remains one of the greatest ODI batters in history, having scored 11,895 runs in 288 matches at an average of 48.95 and a strike rate of 93.04. His record includes 34 centuries, 62 fifties and the highest individual ODI score of 264. He currently ranks seventh among the format's all-time leading run-scorers and is India's third-highest ODI run-getter behind Sachin Tendulkar (18,426 runs) and Virat Kohli (14,941 runs). Rohit and Kohli will next be seen in ODI action when India host the West Indies for a three-match series from September 27 to October 3.