Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 52 off 21 balls propelled India to their highest Power-play total in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history during the final against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India surged to 92 for no loss in six overs, surpassing the previous best Power-play total of 92/1 by the West Indies in 2024. Abhishek’s rapid half-century in just 18 deliveries marked the fastest fifty in this T20 World Cup edition.
India’s innings started steadily, scoring 12 runs in the first two overs, before Abhishek and Sanju Samson unleashed an onslaught on the New Zealand bowlers, accumulating 80 runs in the last four overs of the Power-play. Abhishek’s aggressive batting style, including lofted shots and powerful pulls, put New Zealand on the back foot, leading to frequent changes in bowling tactics.
Abhishek’s dominance continued as he punished the New Zealand bowlers, notably smashing Lockie Ferguson for 24 runs in an over, one of the costliest in a T20 World Cup final. With support from Samson’s quick 33 off 17 balls, the duo also notched up the first 50-plus opening partnership in a men’s T20 World Cup final. India’s aggressive start set the stage for a commanding total, crossing the 100-run mark in the eighth over to achieve the fastest team 100s in T20 World Cup knockouts.
