Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Innings Stuns England
Abhishek Sharma put on a T20 batting masterclass at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, delivering a breathtaking 135 off just 54 balls to guide India to a resounding 150-run victory over England in the fifth and final T20I. His explosive innings, featuring 13 sixes and seven fours, not only helped India seal the series 4-1 but also set multiple records in the process.
The 24-year-old left-hander etched his name in history by recording the highest individual T20I score by an Indian, surpassing Shubman Gill’s 126 against New Zealand*. Additionally, his 13 sixes set a new benchmark for most sixes in a single T20I innings by an Indian, breaking Rohit Sharma’s previous record of 10 sixes.
At one stage, Sharma seemed on course to break Rohit’s record for the fastest T20I century by an Indian (35 balls) but narrowly missed out, reaching his hundred in 37 deliveries, making it the second-fastest by an Indian.
Mukesh Ambani’s Rare Celebration for Abhishek’s Brilliance
Among those captivated by Sharma’s fireworks was Mukesh Ambani, India’s richest man, who was in attendance. Known for maintaining a calm demeanor even during IPL matches, Ambani broke character when Sharma smashed a six to reach his half-century off just 17 balls. He was seen standing up and applauding the young batter’s remarkable effort.
Ambani repeated his rare show of enthusiasm when Sharma completed his century, acknowledging the incredible innings that was unfolding before him.
Dominating England’s Bowling Attack
Sharma’s innings was a spectacle of fearless strokeplay, as he took on both fast bowlers and spinners with ease. He confidently stepped out against Jofra Archer, executed precise cuts and drives, and even lofted Jamie Overton over his head for a six to bring up his half-century.
His aggressive start helped India post their highest-ever T20I powerplay total of 95/1 and their best total against England (247/9), surpassing the 224/2 scored in 2021.
England Collapse Under Pressure
Chasing a massive target, England crumbled under the scoreboard pressure. Phil Salt (55 off 23 balls) provided a quick start, but the rest of the lineup fell apart. Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Liam Livingstone collectively managed just 18 runs, leading to England’s dramatic collapse for 97 in just 10.3 overs.
Sharma, having already tormented England with the bat, returned with the ball to claim two wickets for just three runs in his only over, dismissing Brydon Carse and Overton.
Bowlers Seal India’s Second-Largest T20I Victory
India’s bowling attack made quick work of England’s middle and lower order:
- Mohammed Shami led the charge with 3/25
- Shivam Dube (2/11) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/25) provided key breakthroughs
- Ravi Bishnoi (1/9) added to England’s misery
India’s 150-run win is now their second-largest victory margin in T20Is,
