Abhishek Sharma made headlines on September 17 by achieving a remarkable milestone in T20 cricket, scoring the fastest century for India in just 30 balls. This extraordinary feat was pivotal in leading India to a commanding 127-run victory over Afghanistan during the third T20I match in New Delhi, completing a 3-0 series whitewash. The match unfolded with India posting a formidable total, thanks in large part to Sharma's explosive batting performance.
Sharma’s innings saw him break multiple records, including becoming the fastest centurion in T20I history from a Full Member nation, surpassing the previous record held by Rohit Sharma, who scored a century in 35 balls back in 2017. His aggressive approach was evident right from the start, as he launched into the Afghan bowlers, scoring an astounding 76 runs out of India's first 100 runs in the Powerplay.
- Fastest T20I century at 30 balls — Abhishek surpassed Rohit Sharma's previous record.
- Third T20I century — This marked Sharma's third century in T20 format.
- Highest margin of victory — India won by 127 runs, a record against Afghanistan.
Sharma's innings was a blend of power hitting and precision. He reached his fifty in just 16 balls, marking the fourth-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20Is. His dominance at the crease forced Afghanistan to switch strategies, but nothing seemed to work. After his departure, however, the Indian batting lineup struggled to maintain the same momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals.
On the bowling front, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravi Bishnoi were instrumental in dismantling Afghanistan's batting lineup, both claiming three wickets. Afghanistan started their chase strongly, but once they lost key wickets, their innings crumbled. Ultimately, they were bowled out for just 94 runs, marking the highest defeat margin for them in T20Is. This match not only highlighted India's batting prowess but also showcased their bowling strength, ensuring a decisive victory.
