In the 2025 Asia clash of titans, Abhishek Sharma etched his name in the record books against Pakistan on a Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. He outscored former India captain Virat Kohli with a blistering innings.
India was set a target of 128 on a tricky pitch. Abhishek took charge and smashed 31 off 13 balls and took control of the chase for his team. He became the first Indian batter to score 30+ in Powerplay against Pakistan in T20Is. Virat Kohli held the record previously with 29 runs, achieved at the same stadium in 2022. In the overall list, Abhishek is third, behind Nasir Jamshed (34 runs in 2012) and Imran Nazir (33 runs in 2007).
Abhishek is currently the number 1 T20I batter in the world ahead of Tilak Varma and Phil Salt. He has played 18 T20Is for India and scored 565 runs at a strike rate of 193. He also has 2 centuries.
India dominated Pakistan in all departments despite losing the toss. Kuldeep Yadav worked his magic with his left-arm wrist spin and took 3 wickets for 18 runs in his 4 overs and restricted Pakistan to 127/9.
Abhishek’s 31(13) at the top was well complemented by captain Suryakumar Yadav who celebrated his birthday in style after returning from an injury. He remained unbeaten on 47 off 37 balls and finished the game with a massive six that went into the crowd. They chased down 128 and extended their unbeaten run in the tournament.
After India reached the target, Suryakumar walked back to the dressing room with his partner Shivam Dube.
In the post-match presentation, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha was absent and didn’t speak. When asked why India didn’t shake hands with Pakistan, Suryakumar said, Some things in life are bigger than sportsmanship.
