On February 2, 2025, Indian cricket witnessed a historic moment that will be etched in the annals of T20 history. Abhishek Sharma, the young and explosive left-handed batsman, delivered an awe-inspiring performance by smashing 135 runs off just 54 balls against England in the 5th T20I at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. His breathtaking knock not only powered India to a mammoth total of 247/9 but also secured his name among the legends of the shortest format of the game.
Fastest Century in T20 International Cricket History List
Abhishek’s innings was nothing short of extraordinary. He registered the second-fastest century by an Indian in T20 internationals, taking just 46 balls to reach the three-figure mark—only behind Rohit Sharma’s record of 35 balls. This achievement places him firmly on the prestigious list of players with the fastest T20 centuries in international cricket history. What makes this feat even more remarkable is the sheer dominance and precision displayed throughout his innings.
While records like the fastest century often grab headlines, Abhishek didn’t stop there. His unbeaten blitz included 13 sixes, the most ever hit by an Indian batter in a single T20I match, surpassing previous benchmarks set by stalwarts like Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya. Each shot was a testament to his skill, power, and ability to read the game—a combination that has now earned him global acclaim.
Highest T20 Score for India
In addition to breaking records for speed, Abhishek also claimed the title of the “highest individual score by an Indian in T20Is”, eclipsing previous efforts by some of the biggest names in the sport. His 135-run masterclass outshone even legendary performances such as Virat Kohli’s iconic 82 against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup—a knock widely regarded as one of the greatest in T20 history.
Despite Kohli’s heroics under pressure or Suryakumar Yadav’s consistent brilliance with four T20I centuries to his name, Abhishek’s innings stood apart due to its audacity and execution. Former England captain Michael Vaughan, known for his astute analysis, hailed it as arguably the “greatest T20 knock of all time”.
A Modern-Day Flourishing Player
Vaughan’s praise for Abhishek was effusive: “Wonderful player. I don’t think you can play any better than that. If anyone’s played a better T20 innings than that, I’ve not seen it. That was as pure and stylish as you could possibly hope for.”
The former skipper highlighted Abhishek’s versatility, noting how effortlessly he dismantled both pace and spin. Whether it was dancing down the track to loft the ball over extra cover or cutting deliveries for maximums, Abhishek showcased a level of awareness and adaptability rarely seen in modern cricket.
One standout moment came when he took on England’s star bowler, Jofra Archer. After dispatching a short delivery for a six through point, Abhishek anticipated Archer’s adjustment and promptly stepped out to smash the next ball straight over extra cover. According to Vaughan, “That’s what separates great players—they read the bowler’s mind and stay one step ahead.”
Records Tumble Amidst Carnage
As Abhishek unleashed his carnage, records tumbled left and right:
– Most Sixes in an Innings by an Indian: With 13 towering hits into the stands, Abhishek rewrote the record books.
– India’s Highest Individual Score in T20Is: Surpassing previous bests, his 135 remains unmatched.
– Fastest Century Against England: Abhishek achieved this milestone in just 46 balls, leaving England’s bowlers shell-shocked.
England, who started their chase confidently, eventually crumbled under the weight of India’s massive total, managing only 97 runs and losing the series by 1-4. While the team struggled collectively, it was Abhishek’s brilliance that stole the spotlight.
Why This Knock Stands Out
What sets Abhishek’s innings apart from other high-scoring knocks is the context and timing. Playing at the Wankhede Stadium—a venue known for its electric atmosphere—he rose to the occasion with a maturity beyond his years. At just 24 years old, he demonstrated not only raw power but also exceptional game sense, seamlessly transitioning between aggression and caution.
Comparisons with other legendary knocks are inevitable. From Virat Kohli’s unforgettable 82* against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup to Rohit Sharma’s blistering centuries, Indian cricket fans have been spoiled with brilliance. Yet, Abhishek’s knock resonates differently—it’s a blend of elegance, brute force, and tactical acumen.
The Future Looks Bright
With this monumental performance, Abhishek Sharma has announced himself as a future superstar of Indian cricket. Already being tipped as a potential mainstay in India’s T20 setup, his ability to dominate world-class bowlers makes him a formidable asset. As Vaughan aptly put it, “He’s a modern-day flourishing player with style, power, and skill sets that few possess.”
For now, cricket enthusiasts around the globe are celebrating Abhishek’s heroics—a reminder that the spirit of innovation and excellence continues to thrive in the world of T20 cricket.
Will this knock go down as the greatest T20 innings of all time? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Abhishek Sharma’s 135 off 54 balls has already cemented its place in history.
