Abhishek Sharma, under the mentorship of Yuvraj Singh, delivered a stunning performance in the 2nd T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on Sunday, smashing multiple records with a remarkable century. After the early dismissal of captain Shubman Gill, Abhishek seized control of the Indian innings, aggressively taking on Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Blessing Muzarabani. His innings marked a significant debut on the international stage, showcasing his potential.
Abhishek Sharma accelerated India’s innings after a slow start in the powerplay against Zimbabwe, reaching his maiden half-century in the 10th over. He smashed a six off Dion Myers to achieve this milestone. Initially dropped on 27 by Luke Jongwe, Abhishek capitalized on the opportunity, steering India to 74-1 in 10 overs. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Abhishek aggressively added 28 runs in Myers’ first over, striking two sixes and two fours.
Abhishek Sharma set a new record for the most sixes in the 2024 season, hitting his 47th six during his innings. Initially given out by the umpire in Sikandar Raza’s third over, a successful review reversed the decision, placing him close to his first century. Leading up to the death overs, Abhishek continued his aggressive batting, smashing two sixes off Wellington Masakadza as he approached the nervous 90s.
Abhishek was on the brink of a century when he smashed another six off Masakadza, completing his maiden century in just 47 balls. He partnered with Ruturaj Gaikwad to set India’s highest partnership (106 runs) against Zimbabwe in T20Is. His century in 46 balls also made him the third-fastest Indian to reach this milestone in T20Is.
Abhishek Sharma and KL Rahul both achieved T20I centuries for India in 46 balls. Rohit Sharma holds the record for the fastest century for India, scoring it in just 35 balls against Sri Lanka in Indore in 2017. Suryakumar Yadav follows closely, hitting a century in 45 balls against Sri Lanka in Rajkot last year.