Abhishek Sharma storms to a historic 12-ball fifty, helping Punjab post a massive 310/5 against Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. (Image Credit: X/ @srhfansofficial)
Left-hander Abhishek Sharma, 25, went on a power-hitting spree as he decimated the Bengal bowling attack to help his side win the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match here on Sunday. He raced to his half-century in just 12 balls, slamming five fours and five sixes and giving just one dot ball, making it the joint third-fastest fifty in men's T20 cricket and joint second-fastest by an Indian.
Sharma did not stop there after the explosive start. He brought up his century in just 32 balls to join the elite list of fastest Indian centurions in T20 cricket. By the time he was dismissed for 148 off 52 balls, he had smashed 16 sixes and eight fours - an innings of pure dominance.
Sharma's assault was ably supported with an explosive opening partnership with Prabhsimran Singh-70 off 35 balls-as Punjab reached 310/5 in 20 overs-only the second time any team has crossed 300 in SMAT history. A huge total that put Bengal under immense pressure right from the beginning and showcased Punjab's firepower.
Bengal's bowling lineup, comprising experienced pros like Mohammed Shami and Akash Deep, was taken to pieces. Shami leaked over 60 runs in his four overs, while Akash Deep eventually dismissed Sharma, but not before being battered across his spell.
For Abhishek Sharma, this innings is not just about the numbers; it’s a statement. His form puts him back on the radar for national selection and strengthens his claim in forthcoming T20 tournaments. On a format where the momentum may swing in the blink of an eye, such a knock can turn games on their head. For now, Punjab and Abhishek Sharma have rewritten history in SMAT 2025.
