An incredible Abhishek show—a century off 30 balls—as Team India whitewashes Afghanistan

Image Courtesy: ICC

XtraTime Web Desk

The Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday witnessed yet another breathtaking debut-like show as Abhishek Sharma produced a sensational batting masterclass. The left-hander smashed a century off just 30 balls, setting a new record for the fastest T20I hundred by an Indian. In the process, he broke Rohit Sharma’s previous record.

Abhishek eventually walked back to the pavilion after scoring a blistering 108 off just 34 balls, leaving India firmly in control. At the time of his dismissal, India had reached 142 for one.

Abhishek’s explosive innings included 11 sixes and nine boundaries. His opening partner Sanju Samson also contributed significantly, scoring a quickfire 50 off 35 balls. Captain Shreyas Iyer added 29 off 20 deliveries as India posted a massive 221 for seven in their 20 overs.

In reply, Afghanistan had no answers to India’s bowling attack and were bowled out for just 94. India registered a commanding 127-run victory to seal the three-match series 3-0. The first two matches had also been won by India by seven wickets, but the third game produced a much more emphatic result.

Abhishek was in sensational form throughout the series. Across the three matches, he scored 209 runs from just 85 balls, underlining his growing importance to India’s T20I setup.

Among the Indian bowlers, Nitish Kumar Reddy was the standout performer, claiming three wickets for just 25 runs. With the regular all-rounder currently sidelined due to injury, Nitish made the most of his opportunity.

Ravi Bishnoi also picked up three wickets for 26 runs, while Axar Patel returned excellent figures of two for nine. Jasprit Bumrah and Yash Thakur claimed one wicket each.

India’s emphatic 127-run win completed a dominant 3-0 series sweep over Afghanistan.