Abhishek Sharma's Blazing Century Leads India to Win the Series Against England
Abhishek Sharma smashed a record-breaking 135 off 54 balls as India secured a dominant 150-run victory over England in the final T20I, sealing a 4-1 series win. Read the full match report here.
kowshik Reddy
In a spectacular display of power-hitting, Abhishek Sharma propelled India to a commanding 150-run victory over England in the final T20 International at Wankhede Stadium on February 2, 2025. This win secured a 4-1 series triumph for India.
Opening the innings, Sharma unleashed an onslaught on the English bowlers, amassing 135 runs off just 54 balls. His innings featured 13 towering sixes and seven boundaries, marking the second-fastest T20I century by an Indian.
India posted a formidable total of 247 for nine, with contributions from Shivam Dube, who scored a quickfire 30 off 13 balls. In response, England's chase faltered despite a brisk 55 off 23 balls by opener Phil Salt. The rest of the batting lineup collapsed under pressure, resulting in England being bowled out for 97 in just 10.3 overs. Mohammed Shami led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Varun Chakravarthy, Shivam Dube, and Abhishek Sharma each claimed two wickets.
Sharma's all-round performance earned him both the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards. Reflecting on his innings, Sharma stated, "I aimed to play my natural game and capitalize on the scoring opportunities. It's gratifying to contribute to the team's success."
England's captain, Jos Buttler, acknowledged the exceptional nature of Sharma's performance, admitting that his team had no answers to the onslaught. He remarked, "Sometimes, you have to tip your hat to an innings of that quality."
This series has seen India embrace a high-risk, high-reward strategy in T20 cricket, as highlighted by head coach Gautam Gambhir. He emphasized the team's focus on selflessness and fearlessness, aiming for high scores even if it sometimes results in low ones.
India will now shift their focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, commencing on February 6. The team is expected to welcome back key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, bolstering their lineup for the 50-over format.
