Abhishek Sharma Smashes Record 30-Ball Century as India Beat Afghanistan
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
India opener Abhishek Sharma produced a spectacular batting display in Delhi, hitting a record-breaking 30-ball century as India defeated Afghanistan by 127 runs in the third T20 International.
The victory completed a 3-0 series sweep for India, with Sharma’s explosive innings becoming the major highlight of the match.
Abhishek Sharma Sets New T20I Record
Sharma scored 108 runs from just 34 deliveries, smashing nine fours and 11 sixes during his remarkable knock.
His century came in only 30 balls, making it the fastest T20 International hundred by a batter representing a full-member cricket nation.
The innings also saw Sharma break India’s previous T20I record for the fastest century. Rohit Sharma had previously reached his hundred from 35 balls against Sri Lanka in 2017.
India Post 221 Runs in Delhi
India were invited to bat first after Afghanistan won the toss and elected to field.
Sharma provided the early fireworks before Sanju Samson added a valuable 50 from 35 balls. Their contributions helped India reach 221-7 from their 20 overs.
Sharma’s aggressive approach during the powerplay put Afghanistan under immediate pressure and gave India a strong platform for a huge total.
Afghanistan Bowled Out for 94
Afghanistan struggled badly during their chase and lost four wickets for just 47 runs.
Captain Ibrahim Zadran was the only Afghan batter to pass the 20-run mark, scoring 25. The rest of the batting lineup failed to build a meaningful partnership.
India’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings, with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravi Bishnoi claiming three wickets each.
Afghanistan were eventually dismissed for 94 in 14.1 overs, giving India a comprehensive 127-run victory.
India Complete 3-0 Series Victory
India had already secured the series after winning the second T20I by seven wickets on Tuesday.
They had also won the opening match by seven wickets, leaving Afghanistan unable to challenge the hosts across the three-match series.
The final game provided India with another convincing performance as they continued their preparations for upcoming international commitments.
Abhishek Credits Team Support
Following his record-setting performance, Sharma highlighted the importance of preparation and support from the captain and coaching staff.
He said his approach is based on assessing the opposition bowlers and making the most of the powerplay rather than overthinking his batting.
The left-handed opener also stressed the importance of playing with freedom and maintaining an attacking mindset.
Afghanistan Look to Improve
Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran acknowledged his team’s disappointment but said the side would continue working on its weaknesses.
He pointed to the importance of playing more international matches, particularly against leading teams, to gain experience and improve their performances.
