Abhishek Sharma produced another statement innings in the first T20I against Afghanistan, launching India's chase into overdrive at the Arun Jaitley Stadium
in Delhi.
Opening alongside Sanju Samson, the left-hander took the attack to Afghanistan's bowlers and gave India a flying start while chasing 157.
The knock was particularly significant given the intense competition surrounding India's opening slots. Abhishek's place at the top of the order has been relatively secure, while Sanju Samson and 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi were competing for the other opening position.
Sanju Samson departed after 10 runs, but Abhishek stitched a stormy partnership with Ishan Kishan. The duo added 121 runs for 2nd wicket, as India romped towards victory. In the powerplay, India mounted 82 runs, and after that, the onslaught continued.
The southpaw ended up scoring 82 runs off 32 deliveries, with 7 fours and 7 sixes. His innings was a key factor as India chased Afghanistan's total with ease and won the match by 7 wickets.
Abhishek Sharma creates Unique Record
With his stunning knock, Abhishek Sharma has now become the fastest Indian to score 6000 T20 runs. The Indian batter has reached the milestone in 3420 balls, and is the 2nd quickest in the world, with New Zealand's Finn Allen being the fastest with just 3386 deliveries.
Fastest to 6000 T20 runs (by balls)
3386 Finn Allen
3420 Abhishek Sharma
3550 Andre Russell
3681 Tim David
3857 Will Jacks/ Phil Salt
(Stats Courtesy: Cricbuzz)
In terms of innings, West Indies legend Chris Gayle got to 6000 T20 runs in just 162 innings, while KL Rahul is the fastest Indian in 166 innings.
