In a dazzling display of power-hitting, India’s opener Abhishek Sharma smashed a breathtaking half-century off just 14 balls against New Zealand in the third T20I at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. This blistering knock ranks as the second-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20 internationals, falling just short of the legendary Yuvraj Singh’s 12-ball record set against England in 2007.
New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, struggled to a modest 153 for 9 in their 20 overs. But India chased it down with ease, thanks to an unbroken 102-run partnership off 40 balls between Sharma and captain Suryakumar Yadav. Sharma remained unbeaten on 68 from 20 balls, laced with 5 sixes and 7 fours, while Yadav fired 57 not out from 26 deliveries featuring 9 boundaries. The match was wrapped up in a mere 10 overs.
Reflecting on his explosive innings post-match, Sharma credited the team’s expectations and dressing room vibe. ‘The team wants this from me every time, and I aim to deliver,’ he said. ‘It’s not always easy, but mindset and team atmosphere play a huge role.’
On Yuvraj’s iconic record, Sharma admitted, ‘Breaking it feels next to impossible, but you never know—any batter could do it someday. Everyone’s batting brilliantly in this series, and it’s set to get even more thrilling.’
Sharma also revealed the thought process behind his first-ball six: ‘I don’t plan to hit a six right away. I think about what the bowler might bowl to get me out early and play accordingly. It’s all instinct between the wickets.’
Discussing his footwork, he added, ‘It depends on field placements. If there’s no leg-side fielder, I don’t go there. Once I spot some room, the off-side opens up. I always play to the field.’
This performance cements Sharma’s rising stardom, signaling India’s dominance in the shortest format ahead of future challenges.