Abhishek Sharma Smashes Record for Most Sixes by an Indian in T20I Chase

Abhishek’s explosive 79 off 34 balls, featuring eight sixes, powers India to a commanding win over England at Eden Gardens.

Kolkata, January 23: India’s dominance in the first T20I against England was defined by Abhishek Sharma’s record-smashing knock and a disciplined bowling performance by the spinners. The Eden Gardens crowd witnessed a phenomenal display as India secured a seven-wicket victory, chasing down 132 in just 12.5 overs.

Abhishek Sharma lit up the chase with an electrifying 79 off 34 balls, including a 20-ball half-century—the second-fastest by an Indian against England in T20Is. The left-hander’s knock featured eight towering sixes, breaking the Indian record for the most sixes in a T20I chase.

Spin Duo Restricts England to 132

Earlier, England, opting to bat first, struggled against India’s spinners. Varun Chakravarthy (3/23) and Axar Patel (2/22) applied relentless pressure. Despite skipper Jos Buttler’s resilient 68 off 44 balls, England failed to build partnerships and were bowled out for 132.

Abhishek’s Power-Hitting Masterclass

India’s chase was a one-man show, with Abhishek stealing the spotlight. His eight sixes included three off Adil Rashid, two against Mark Wood, and one each off Jofra Archer, Jamie Overton, and Gus Atkinson. The left-hander surpassed the previous Indian record of six sixes in a T20I chase, held by players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Virat Kohli.

Abhishek’s explosive start was well-supported by Sanju Samson (26 off 20) and Tilak Varma (19 off 16), ensuring a comfortable win.

Historic Comparisons

Abhishek’s performance evoked memories of Yuvraj Singh’s iconic six-hitting spree against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup. As a mentee of Yuvraj, Abhishek lived up to the legacy, marking his arrival as a power-hitter in the shortest format.

Globally, Estonia’s Sahil Chauhan holds the record for most sixes in a T20I chase (18), while South Africa’s Richard Levi smashed 13 sixes in a single innings against New Zealand, a record among Full Member nations.

Looking Ahead

India will look to continue their momentum in the second T20I in Chennai, with England aiming to bounce back in what promises to be another thrilling contest.

Tags: Abhishek Sharma, T20I cricket, England tour of India, India vs England, Eden Gardens match, cricket records, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Indian cricket highlights

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