Power and precision defined Abhishek Sharma’s masterclass in Guwahati, where his 14-ball fifty against New Zealand etched his name near Yuvraj Singh’s hallowed 12-ball T20I record from 2007. The opener’s heroics sealed a commanding win for India in the third T20.
Kiwis batted first post-toss, managing 153/9. Sharma paired with Suryakumar Yadav for an electric 102-run alliance off 40 balls, cantering to target in 10 overs. Sharma’s 68* boasted 5 sixes and 7 fours in 20 balls; Yadav’s 57* added 9 boundaries in 26.
Sharma, buzzing post-match, shared: ‘I thrive on the team’s faith in my big starts. Not routine, but mindset and team spirit fuel it.’
On surpassing Yuvraj: ‘That record’s a mountain—near impossible. But cricket’s full of surprises; someone will climb it. Batters are peaking here; series promises fireworks.’
His first-ball maximum? ‘Pure reaction. I game out the bowler’s wicket plan and strike back.’
Footwork philosophy: ‘Field placements rule. Skip leg if unguarded; dominate off when space allows. It’s all about reading the setup.’
This knock propels Sharma as a T20 force, blending youth daring with veteran smarts, as India charges forward.