New Delhi:
In a dazzling display of batting prowess, Abhishek Sharma etched his name into the annals of Indian cricket history with a blistering 135 runs off just 54 balls in the fifth T20I against England. This monumental innings, which included 7 fours and 13 sixes, was the cornerstone of India’s resounding 150-run victory over England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 2, 2025.
Sharma’s performance is being hailed as one of the best T20I knocks by an Indian batter, breaking several records in the process. His innings not only surpassed Shubman Gill’s record for the highest individual score in a T20I match for India but also set a new benchmark for the most sixes hit by an Indian batter in a single T20I match.
The match saw Abhishek Sharma take center stage, scoring at an incredible rate that left the English bowlers reeling. His partnership with Tilak Varma and Shivam Dube was pivotal, as India amassed a daunting total of 247/9. This set England a nearly insurmountable target of 248 runs, which they failed to achieve, succumbing to a record 150-run defeat.
Sharma’s innings was a testament to his meticulous pre-match preparations and the unwavering support he received from his coaches and captain. In the post-match press conference, he attributed his success to the extensive practice sessions where he simulated match scenarios, allowing him to capitalize on the pace of England’s fast bowlers and the spin of Adil Rashid.
Abhishek Sharma’s knock was not just about personal achievement but also about setting new standards for Indian cricket. His 135 runs from 54 balls marked the highest individual score by an Indian in a T20I, eclipsing Shubman Gill’s previous record of 126 not out. Additionally, his 13 sixes in a single innings broke the record for the most sixes hit by an Indian batter in a T20I match.
Despite the competitive nature of international cricket, Abhishek Sharma emphasized the camaraderie among himself, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. He mentioned that there was no feeling of competitiveness or insecurity among them, as their shared dream of playing for India remained the paramount goal.
This performance is a significant milestone in Abhishek Sharma’s career, coming just months after his T20I debut on July 6, 2024. As India prepares for the upcoming ODI series, Sharma’s form is a promising sign, and his confidence is likely to boost the team’s morale.
