Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Innings
In a scintillating display of power-hitting, Abhishek Sharma smashed 135 runs off just 54 balls, propelling India to a 150-run demolition of England in the fifth T20I at Wankhede Stadium. His fearless strokeplay, marked by 13 sixes and seven fours, left England struggling from the outset.
This innings became the second-fastest T20I century by an Indian and set the record for the highest individual T20I score for India against England. Sharma’s aggressive approach helped India post a mammoth total of 247/9, putting immense pressure on England’s batting unit.
England’s Struggles and Buttler’s Reaction
Chasing 248, England crumbled under the pressure, managing only 97 runs before being bundled out in 10.3 overs. Their batting collapse ensured India’s biggest-ever victory margin in T20Is.
England’s skipper Jos Buttler acknowledged Abhishek Sharma’s masterclass, stating, “I think credit to Abhishek Sharma, that’s as clean a ball striking as I’ve seen, he played fantastically well. We thought of ways to counter him, but some days, you just have to applaud a great knock.”
Despite the heavy defeat, Buttler praised England’s bowling effort towards the end of India’s innings, commending his team for fighting back after India’s fiery start.
India’s Clinical Bowling Performance
While Abhishek Sharma stole the spotlight, India’s bowlers were equally dominant. Mohammed Shami led the attack with figures of 3/25, while spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Shivam Dube chipped in with two wickets each. Interestingly, Abhishek Sharma also contributed with the ball, picking up two wickets for just three runs in an over.
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India’s clinical bowling effort ensured England had no chance of making a comeback, wrapping up the game in emphatic fashion.
Gautam Gambhir’s High-Risk, High-Reward Approach
Following India’s emphatic series victory, head coach Gautam Gambhir highlighted the team’s aggressive, high-risk approach. He emphasized India’s commitment to an attacking brand of cricket, focusing on selfless and fearless performances.
Gambhir remarked, “We want to play high-risk, high-reward cricket. Come the big tournaments, we will continue this approach without fearing failure.”
Looking Ahead: ODI Series Next
With this victory, India sealed the T20I series 4-1, marking another dominant performance in their home season. Both teams will now shift focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series, set to begin on February 6. England will be keen to bounce back, while India will look to continue their winning momentum.
