Smashing a 20-ball fifty, Abhishek Sharma delivers India’s second-fastest T20I half-century against England
Kolkata, January 23: Abhishek Sharma showcased an electrifying performance at Eden Gardens, registering India’s second-fastest fifty against England in T20Is. The left-hander’s fiery knock of 79 off just 34 balls ensured a comprehensive seven-wicket victory for India in the series opener, with a staggering 43 balls to spare.
Mentored by the legendary Yuvraj Singh, Abhishek carried forward the tradition of Indian left-handers dominating English bowlers in the shortest format, a legacy cemented by Yuvraj’s six sixes in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
Record-Breaking Knock
Abhishek reached his half-century in just 20 balls, becoming the second-fastest Indian to achieve the milestone against England. The record remains with Yuvraj, who smashed a 12-ball fifty in the iconic 2007 World Cup game in Durban.
In his innings, Abhishek struck five boundaries and eight towering sixes, amassing 68 of his 79 runs in boundaries. With a strike rate of 232.35, his innings left the English attack reeling.
Moments of Luck and Brilliance
Abhishek had fortune on his side, surviving two dropped catches before being dismissed while attempting a lofted shot off Adil Rashid, caught by Harry Brook at long-off. However, by then, the damage was done.
India’s Fastest T20I Chase Against England
India’s chase of 133 runs is now their fastest successful pursuit against England in men’s T20Is, finishing with 43 balls to spare. The previous record dates back to 2012 in Pune, where India chased down 158 with 13 balls remaining.
Abhishek’s scintillating performance not only set the tone for the series but also further highlighted India’s growing dominance in the format under an aggressive approach. With a commanding start to 2025, the team now looks forward to building on this momentum.
Tags: Abhishek Sharma fifty, India vs England T20I, Eden Gardens, Yuvraj Singh record, fastest T20I chase, Indian cricket milestones
#AbhishekSharma #INDvsENG #T20IRecords #IndianCricket #EdenGardens #PowerHitting