Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 135 off 54 balls powered India to a 150-run victory over England in the 5th T20I, sealing the series 4-1.
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India Crush England in Series Finale as Abhishek Sharma Smashes Records
NEW DELHI: India wrapped up their T20I series against England in emphatic fashion, winning the fifth and final match by 150 runs and clinching the series 4-1. The game was dominated by Abhishek Sharma, who delivered a sensational 54-ball 135, setting new records for India in T20I cricket.
Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Knock
Abhishek’s masterclass saw him achieve the second-fastest century by an Indian in T20Is, reaching the milestone in just 37 balls. His innings featured a staggering 13 sixes and 7 fours, surpassing Shubman Gill’s previous Indian record of 126 not out against New Zealand in 2023.
India’s total of 247/9 was their highest ever against England in T20Is, eclipsing their previous best of 224/2 at Ahmedabad in 2021. This score also stands as India’s fourth-highest in T20I history.
England’s Batting Collapse
Despite winning the toss and opting to field, England’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, managing only 97 runs in 10.3 overs. The top order failed miserably, with key batsmen such as Ben Duckett (0), Jos Buttler (7), Harry Brook (2), and Liam Livingstone (9) collectively scoring just 18 runs.
The lower order provided little resistance, and Abhishek Sharma contributed with the ball as well, taking 2/3 in his sole over, dismissing Brydon Carse (3) and Jamie Overton (1).
Bowling Excellence Seals India’s Dominant Win
India’s bowlers ensured England had no chance of a comeback:
- Mohammed Shami: 3/25
- Shivam Dube: 2/11
- Varun Chakravarthy: 2/25
- Ravi Bishnoi: 1/9
A Powerplay to Remember
India’s innings began explosively, with the team racing to 95/1 in the first six overs, their highest-ever powerplay score in T20Is. Abhishek’s dominance was evident as he smashed three sixes and a four in Overton’s fifth over, accumulating 25 runs in that over alone.
Key Highlights from India’s Batting Performance
- Sanju Samson provided early momentum, hitting two sixes off Jofra Archer in the first over before getting out for 16 off 6 balls.
- Suryakumar Yadav had a rare failure at his home ground, caught by Phil Salt while attempting his signature leg-side shot.
- Abhishek’s blitzkrieg innings ensured India set an unassailable target, ultimately winning by 150 runs, their second-largest margin of victory in T20Is after their 168-run win against New Zealand in 2023.
What’s Next for Team India?
With this emphatic series win, India have gained immense momentum heading into their upcoming fixtures. Abhishek Sharma’s rise as a formidable T20I batsman is a massive positive, and fans will be eager to see how he performs in future international contests.
