Abhishek Sharma’s Blazing 84 Fires India to Series Lead Against New Zealand
TORONTO, January 23, 2026 – Indian cricket’s newest superstar, Abhishek Sharma, unleashed a breathtaking display of power-hitting, scoring 84 runs from just 35 deliveries to lead India to a commanding 48-run victory over New Zealand in the first T20 International in Nagpur. The innings, studded with eight sixes and five fours, provided a perfect showcase of why the 25-year-old left-hander is the top-ranked T20I batter in the world.
Match-Winning Knock in Nagpur
Batting first at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, India posted a formidable total of 238 for 7, a score built almost single-handedly in the powerplay by Sharma’s assault. His aggressive strokeplay from the outset put the New Zealand bowlers on the back foot, laying a foundation that proved insurmountable. In reply, the Black Caps were bowled out for 190, handing India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The victory was a stark reminder of India’s formidable batting depth as they build towards the T20 World Cup later this year.
The Meteoric Rise of a Modern Great
Sharma’s journey to the pinnacle of T20 cricket has been rapid and spectacular. Since his international debut against Zimbabwe in July 2024, where he scored a century in his second match, he has redefined powerplay batting for India. His fearless approach, characterised by clean striking and a vast array of shots, has drawn comparisons to Indian legend Yuvraj Singh, who mentored him during the COVID-19 lockdown.
In 2025, Sharma enjoyed a career-defining year. He was the leading run-scorer in India’s triumphant Asia Cup campaign, amassing 314 runs and winning Player of the Tournament. His 135 against England at the Wankhede Stadium stands as the highest individual score for India in T20Is. These performances propelled him to the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I rankings, where he achieved a record 931 rating points—the highest in the format’s history.
Key Facts & Career Statistics
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Abhishek Sharma |
| Born | September 4, 2000 (Amritsar, Punjab) |
| Current ICC T20I Ranking | No. 1 Batsman |
| T20I Career (As of Jan 2026) | 34 Matches, 1,199 Runs, Avg 37.47, SR 190.92, 2 Centuries |
| Domestic Team | Punjab |
| IPL Franchise | Sunrisers Hyderabad |
| Notable 2025 Achievement | ICC Men’s Player of the Month (September), Asia Cup 2025 Player of the Tournament |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Abhishek Sharma’s batting style?
Abhishek Sharma is a left-handed opening batter known for his aggressive, fearless approach. He is also a capable left-arm orthodox spin bowler, adding an all-round dimension to his game.
Which Indian cricket legend mentored him?
Sharma received significant coaching and mentorship from former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh during the COVID-19 lockdown. Yuvraj has stated his goal was to prepare Sharma “to win games for India.”
What records does he hold?
Sharma holds several records, including the highest individual T20I score for India (135), the record for the highest rating points (931) in ICC T20I rankings history, and he was the fastest Indian to score 1,000 T20I runs (surpassed only by Virat Kohli).
What is next for Abhishek Sharma and the Indian team?
India leads the five-match T20I series against New Zealand 1-0. The team’s immediate focus is securing the series victory, with all eyes on the T20 World Cup 2026, where Sharma is expected to be a centrepiece of India’s title defence.