April 13, 2025: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener Abhishek Sharma etched his name into the record books on Saturday with a historic century against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025. The 24-year-old batter delivered a sensational innings, scoring 141 off just 55 balls, becoming the highest individual scorer by an Indian in IPL history, surpassing KL Rahul’s 132 in 2020.
With 14 fours and 10 sixes, Abhishek’s knock came at an explosive strike rate of 256.36. His powerful display helped SRH end a four-match losing streak, giving the Hyderabad-based side a much-needed win.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, an emotional Abhishek revealed that his parents were present in the stadium and that their presence brought good luck for the team.
“I have been waiting for them. My whole team was waiting for my parents because they were lucky to have SRH,” he said with a smile.
Abhishek, known for his conventional stroke play, also spoke about adapting his style during the match:
“If you have seen me close enough, I never play behind the wicket. But I wanted to invent a few shots which were very easy on this wicket. It helped us both [referring to his opening partner]. The partnership boosted me up.”
He credited the team environment for his turnaround in form:
“Special mention to the team and captain. The atmosphere was simple even though the batters were not doing well. It was a special day for both of us.”
Abhishek also shared that he had support and motivation from senior players like Yuvraj Singh and Suryakumar Yadav, who have been in touch with him throughout the tournament.
“This one is very special because I wanted to break that losing streak. Losing four matches back to back was very tough. But we never talked about it in the team. Special mention to Yuvi paji and Suryakumar as well. They have been in touch with me.”
With this innings, Abhishek also broke several records:
- Highest score by an Indian in IPL history (141)
- Third-highest individual IPL score ever, behind Chris Gayle (175*) and Brendon McCullum (158*)
- Most runs in boundaries (116) in a single SRH innings, surpassing Jonny Bairstow’s 90
- Most sixes (10) in a single innings by an SRH batter, overtaking David Warner’s previous record of eight
Abhishek’s spectacular knock has not only reignited SRH’s campaign but also solidified his place as one of the most promising young talents in the IPL.