Abhishek Sharma scored the second-fastest century in T20 international cricket (among Test-playing nations) for India during the fifth and final T20I against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.
The left-hander brought up his second T20I century in just 37 deliveries, smashing 10 sixes and 5 fours en route to the mark.
Abhishek’s century ranks behind compatriot Rohit Sharma and South Africa’s David Miller’s record, who both scored 35-ball tons. His feat also included the second-fastest T20I fifty for India, achieved in only 17 balls, showcasing his rapid scoring ability. Estonia’s Sahil Chauhan holds the record for the fastest 100 in T20I cricket with just 27 balls against Cyprus.
Following his incredible performance at Wankhede Stadium, Sharma lit up the ground with his aggressive batting, notching his remarkable century off just 37 balls. He captivated the audience and stunned the opposition, showcasing the power of Indian T20 cricket.
Abhishek reached his hundred during the 10.1 over with a comfortable single off Brydon Carse, surpassing Quinton de Kock's previous record of 10.2 overs against the West Indies, achieved earlier this year. This performance also cemented Abhishek as the second fastest Indian and third overall to reach the hundred-run mark among full-member teams.
The list of fastest T20I centuries for India now includes:
- 35 balls - David Miller vs Bangladesh, Potchefstroom, 2017
- 35 balls - Rohit Sharma vs Sri Lanka, Indore, 2017
- 37 balls - Abhishek Sharma vs England, Wankhede, 2025
- 39 balls - Johnson Charles vs South Africa, Centurion, 2023
- 40 balls - Sanju Samson vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad, 2024
Sharma’s knock also included the second-fastest T20I fifty for India, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dangerous batters. He reached the fifty milestone with consecutive sixes off pacer Jamie Overton.
A detailed look at the fastest T20I fifties for India reveals:
- 12 balls - Yuvraj Singh vs England, Durban, 2007
- 17 balls - Abhishek Sharma vs England, Wankhede, 2025
- 18 balls - KL Rahul vs Scotland, Dubai, 2021
- 18 balls - Suryakumar Yadav vs South Africa, Guwahati, 2022
Earlier, England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and opted to field first, but Sharma's commanding performance led India to their highest powerplay score of 95, surpassing previous benchmarks. This remarkable innings also set new records for the highest individual T20I score by any Indian, scoring 135 runs before his dismissal.
Sharma’s innings broke the previous record held by Shubman Gill, who scored 126 not out against New Zealand, reinforcing India's batting might. Abhishek’s explosive style was complemented by the impressive performance of his teammates, highlighting the depth of talent present.
Abhishek’s aggressive play secured him 135 runs, and astonishingly, he also became the Indian player with the most sixes hit (13) during this T20I, surpassing Rohit Sharma, who had hit 10 sixes against Sri Lanka.
With India posting 247 runs, the total is the second-highest against England, showing their performance level. England's bowlers struggled on the day, conceding 19 sixes, the highest they have ever allowed in any men’s T20I match.
It's not just the records and milestones; Sharma's scintillated performance was truly historic. His efforts have led to the recognition of his ability to dominate matches through fearless stroke play, setting new standards for players coming after him.
Abhishek Sharma's latest conquest at Wankhede showcases just how exhilarating and powerful Indian batting can be on the international stage. With such breakthroughs, he has entrenched his position as one of India’s future stars who can be expected to achieve greater feats as he continues to shine.