Powerplay overs often set the tone in T20 cricket, with teams aiming to capitalize on the fielding restrictions to score quickly. Over the years, several teams have recorded phenomenal scores during this crucial phase. Let’s explore the top 10 highest Powerplay scores in T20 international cricket, including today’s record-breaking performance by India against England.
India’s Explosive Start Against England – 95 Runs in Powerplay!
In today’s 5th T20I match between India and England (Feb 2, 2025), India displayed an aggressive approach in the Powerplay. Powered by Abhishek Sharma’s fiery knock, India scored 95/1 in the first 6 overs, marking their highest-ever Powerplay score in T20Is. Abhishek’s performance included multiple sixes and boundaries, propelling India to dominate early.
Top 10 Highest Powerplay Scores in T20 International Matches
Here’s a breakdown of the highest scores achieved by teams in the Powerplay phase:
| Rank | Score | Team | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 113/1 | Australia | Scotland | Edinburgh | 2024 |
| 2 | 102/0 | South Africa | West Indies | Centurion | 2023 |
| 3 | 98/4 | West Indies | Sri Lanka | Coolidge | 2021 |
| 4 | 95/1 | India | England | Wankhede, Mumbai | 2025 |
| 5 | 93/0 | Ireland | West Indies | St George’s | 2020 |
| 6 | 92/1 | West Indies | Afghanistan | Gros Islet | 2024 |
| 7 | 91/2 | Netherlands | Ireland | Sylhet | 2014 |
| 8 | 89/0 | England | South Africa | Wankhede, Mumbai | 2016 |
| 9 | 83/1 | South Africa | England | Wankhede, Mumbai | 2016 |
| 10 | 83/0 | West Indies | Australia | The Oval, London | 2009 |
Key Performances in Powerplay Blitz
- Australia (113/1 vs Scotland, 2024)
Australia holds the record for the highest Powerplay score in T20Is, thanks to Travis Head’s sensational 80 off 25 balls. The Aussie batsmen hit 24 boundaries within the first six overs, dismantling Scotland’s bowling attack. - South Africa (102/0 vs West Indies, 2023)
South Africa’s explosive start in Centurion saw them cross the 100-run mark in the Powerplay, led by a stunning performance from Quinton de Kock. - India’s Dominance Today (95/1 vs England, 2025)
Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a 58-run Powerplay knock, the highest by an Indian batter in this phase of a T20I. His innings featured both calculated aggression and power-hitting, putting India in a commanding position early on. - West Indies’ Powerplay Brilliance
The West Indies team has multiple entries in this list, known for their power hitters who often go berserk in the early overs. Their 98/4 against Sri Lanka and 92/1 against Afghanistan are testaments to their aggressive style.
Fastest Powerplay 50s by Indian Batters
- Abhishek Sharma joined the elite list by reaching his half-century in just 17 balls against England today, making it the second-fastest T20I 50 by an Indian, behind Yuvraj Singh’s iconic 12-ball fifty.
Highest Powerplay Partnership Rates
In T20 cricket, quick scoring partnerships during the Powerplay are crucial. Australia’s partnership rate of 19.94 runs per over between Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh in 2024 remains the highest. India also saw an excellent run rate of over 15 today between Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma.
Teams that dominate the Powerplay often set or chase massive targets with ease. For example, Australia’s 62-ball victory against Scotland in 2024 and India’s strong Powerplay foundation today both highlight how crucial these early overs can be.
Notable Individual Performances in Powerplays
| Player | Team | Runs in Powerplay | Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travis Head | Australia | 73 | Australia vs Scotland (2024) |
| Abhishek Sharma | India | 58 | India vs England (2025) |
| Paul Stirling | Ireland | 67 | Ireland vs West Indies (2020) |
The Powerplay phase continues to be one of the most thrilling parts of T20 cricket. Teams and players strive to maximize their scoring potential during these six overs. With today’s stellar performance, India solidified their place among the top Powerplay achievers in T20 cricket history.
