In a night filled with fireworks and record-breaking performances, Abhishek Sharma delivered a sensational innings to etch his name in Indian cricket history. The young left-handed batter dismantled England’s bowling attack with brute force, recording the second-fastest T20I century for India in the fifth and final match of the series at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. His extraordinary 135-run knock off just 54 balls left the English side shell-shocked and ensured a resounding 150-run victory for the hosts.
A Century in Just 37 Balls: Second-Fastest by an Indian
Abhishek Sharma’s blistering century came off just 37 balls, making it the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in T20 internationals. The record still belongs to Rohit Sharma, who smashed a hundred off 35 balls against Sri Lanka in Indore in 2017. Before this match, Sanju Samson held the second-fastest T20I century for India with a 40-ball ton against Bangladesh in Hyderabad.
Abhishek’s knock also saw him surpass Shubman Gill’s 126-run effort against New Zealand in 2023 to register the highest individual T20I score by an Indian batter. His innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, as he struck seven fours and an astounding 13 sixes, breaking Rohit Sharma’s record for the most sixes in a single T20I innings by an Indian (previously 10).
Destructive in the Powerplay
Put in to bat first after England skipper Jos Buttler won the toss, India got off to a brisk start. Although Sanju Samson departed early for 16 runs, Abhishek Sharma ensured that India capitalized on the powerplay. He unleashed his attacking prowess against Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton, making full use of the fielding restrictions. His fearless strokeplay helped India register their highest-ever T20I powerplay total of 95/1.
Abhishek’s intent was evident from the outset. Facing Archer’s raw pace and Wood’s bounce, he charged down the track with aggression, dispatching deliveries over the ropes with ease. His ability to take on England’s premier pacers set the tone for India’s massive total.
India Posts 247/9 – A Mammoth Total
With Abhishek’s heroics, India posted a daunting 247/9 in their allotted 20 overs. His innings was a blend of fearless six-hitting and calculated shot-making. While he fell to Adil Rashid after his whirlwind knock, his contribution had already placed India in a commanding position.
India’s total of 247/9 is their highest against England in T20Is, surpassing the previous best of 224/2 set in 2021. It also ranks among the highest totals in T20 international history.
England’s Batting Collapse: A One-Sided Affair
Chasing an improbable 248, England crumbled under the scoreboard pressure. Phil Salt provided a brief fightback with a rapid 23-ball 55, but his dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse. The likes of Jos Buttler, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, and Liam Livingstone could only muster a combined total of 18 runs, highlighting England’s struggle against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Mohammed Shami led the charge with figures of 3/25, while Shivam Dube (2/11), Varun Chakravarthy (2/25), and Ravi Bishnoi (1/9) ensured that England had no room for recovery. Abhishek Sharma, continuing his dream night, also chipped in with two wickets, conceding just three runs in his single over.
England was eventually bowled out for 97 in just 10.3 overs, handing India a mammoth 150-run victory – their second-largest T20I win in terms of runs, behind their 168-run triumph over New Zealand in 2023.
A Night to Remember for Abhishek Sharma
This performance was more than just a standout knock – it was a statement. Abhishek’s fearless approach, aggressive shot-making, and ability to dominate quality bowling attacks solidified his reputation as one of India’s brightest T20 prospects. His knock also earned praise from cricketing legends, including his mentor, Yuvraj Singh.
During the post-match presentation, Abhishek acknowledged Yuvraj’s influence on his game. “Probably he should be happy, but he always wanted me to bat till 15-20 overs. I think today was my day, and I implemented it well,” he said. The former Indian all-rounder, known for his aggressive batting style, has been mentoring Abhishek, and this innings was a testament to his guidance.
A Future Star in the Making
With this historic innings, Abhishek Sharma has cemented his place in the Indian T20I setup. His fearless batting, ability to take on top-class bowlers, and consistency in the series have made him a player to watch out for in upcoming tournaments. If he continues in this vein, Indian cricket could have another T20 superstar in the making.
India’s dominant 4-1 series win against England serves as a confidence booster ahead of future T20I assignments. While seasoned stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continue to lead, emerging players like Abhishek Sharma provide hope for the next generation of Indian cricket.
As the Wankhede crowd erupted in celebration, one thing became clear – Indian cricket has found a new powerhouse in Abhishek Sharma, and this innings is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career.