A Record-Breaking Display

In a stunning performance at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, India overwhelmed England by 150 runs in the fifth T20I, clinching the series 4-1. The star of the evening was 24-year-old Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 135 runs off 54 balls in an innings that shattered records and captivated fans. His explosive knock, featuring 13 sixes and 5 fours, set a new benchmark as the highest individual T20I score by an Indian batter.

Sharma reached his century in just 37 balls—making it the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in T20Is after Rohit Sharma’s 35-ball century—and achieved this milestone in only 10.1 overs. His aggressive batting left no bowler unchallenged; he dismantled Jofra Archer, who conceded 34 runs in 2 overs, as well as Mark Wood, and effortlessly countered Adil Rashid’s spin. Teaming up with Tilak Varma, who scored 24 off 15 balls, Sharma helped India record a powerplay total of 95 runs—a new national record.

An All-Round Contribution

Sharma’s performance was not limited to his batting. He also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets in his only over with left-arm spin, and even claimed a catch. This achievement made him only the third player in T20I history to score over 100 runs and take multiple wickets in a single match. Reflecting on the performance, Sharma noted that it was a very special moment for him to represent his country, and he emphasized that when his day comes, he makes an impact right from the first ball.

His mentor, Yuvraj Singh, expressed his admiration on social media, stating that Sharma’s performance was exactly what he had expected and that he was immensely proud of his protégé.

Mohammed Shami’s Triumphant Return

The match also marked the noteworthy return of Mohammed Shami, who had been sidelined for 14 months due to ankle surgery and knee complications. Shami made a significant impact by claiming three crucial wickets in the death overs, helping to dismiss England for 97 in just 10.3 overs. Bowling coach Morne Morkel praised Shami’s experience and noted that his guidance was particularly valuable for the younger bowlers. Shami’s comeback provides an important boost to India’s pace attack as the team prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

Series Highlights and Notable Moments

• India’s Dominance in the Series: Despite a setback in the third match at Rajkot, India bounced back to clinch the series in Pune with a 15-run victory. The final match’s 150-run margin is the team’s second-largest T20I victory.
• Spin Wizardry by Varun Chakravarthy: The wrist-spinner earned the Player of the Series award after taking 14 wickets, including two in the decisive match.
• Debatable Substitution: England voiced discontent when Harshit Rana replaced Shivam Dube as a concussion substitute in the fourth T20I, describing the move as an unsuitable replacement.

Looking Forward

With the T20I series now behind them, India and England will shift their focus to a three-match ODI series starting on February 6 in Nagpur. This series will serve as a warm-up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, where India aims to reclaim its glory. For Sharma, his stellar performance further cements his reputation as an emerging star, while Shami’s return significantly strengthens India’s pursuit of silverware.

Key Stats at a Glance

• India’s Total: 247/9 (Highest T20I total at Wankhede)
• England’s Innings: All out for 97 in 10.3 overs
• Sharma’s Milestones: Fastest 50 in 17 balls, 13 sixes (an Indian record), and 135 runs—the highest individual T20I score by an Indian batter.