Abhishek Sharma Sets New T20 Record in High Scoring India vs New Zealand Clash

Overview

Indian opener Abhishek Sharma created history in T20 cricket with a record breaking half century against New Zealand in Nagpur. His explosive innings powered India to a massive total, helping the hosts secure a convincing victory in a match that also set a new all time record for the highest combined T20 score.

Abhishek Sharma celebrates his record breaking half century against New Zealand in Nagpur.
Image Source: Instagram/@indiancricketteam —Edited & Modified by Us

India Post Massive Total After Explosive Start

Abhishek Sharma delivered a sensational performance to create a new T20 cricket record during the opening match of the T20 series between India and New Zealand. The match, played in Nagpur, witnessed breathtaking batting from both sides and produced the highest combined total ever recorded in T20 cricket.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that appeared effective early on. However, Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh completely turned the momentum with aggressive stroke play.

India finished their 20 overs at 238 for 7, setting a daunting target for the visitors.

Abhishek Sharma Record Breaking Knock

Fastest Half Century Against New Zealand

Abhishek Sharma smashed 84 runs off just 35 balls, including five fours and eight sixes, producing one of the most destructive innings in T20 cricket.

He reached his half century in just 22 balls, hitting four boundaries and four sixes. This effort became the fastest fifty by an Indian batter against New Zealand in T20, surpassing the previous record jointly held by KL Rahul and former captain Rohit Sharma, who had achieved the milestone in 23 balls.

Historic T20 Milestone Achieved

Most Sub 25 Ball Half Centuries in T20 History

With this innings, Abhishek Sharma also etched his name into T20 cricket history. He now holds the record for the most half centuries scored in 25 balls or fewer, breaking the shared record previously held by elite batters such as:

• Suryakumar Yadav
• Phil Salt
• Evin Lewis

Abhishek Sharma now tops the list with eight ultra fast half centuries, while Phil Salt, Suryakumar Yadav, and Evin Lewis follow closely with seven each.

Strong Support from India Middle Order

India innings was further strengthened by solid contributions from the middle order:

• Rinku Singh scored 44 runs off 20 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes
• Captain Suryakumar Yadav added 32 runs from 22 balls

These performances ensured India crossed the 230 run mark comfortably.

New Zealand Fall Short Despite Fighting Effort

Chasing a massive target, New Zealand showed intent but fell short. Glenn Phillips led the charge with a powerful 78 run knock, striking four fours and six sixes, while Mark Chapman contributed 39 runs.

Despite their efforts, New Zealand managed 190 for 7 in their 20 overs and suffered a 48 run defeat.

Player of the Match Award

For his record breaking and fearless batting, Abhishek Sharma was deservedly named Player of the Match, earning praise for his aggressive approach and composure under pressure.

New World Record for Highest Combined T20 Score

The match also entered the record books for another historic reason. The combined total of 428 runs is now the highest aggregate ever scored in a T20 match.

Top Highest Combined T20 Scores

1. India vs New Zealand (2026) – 428 runs
2. Zimbabwe vs Gambia (Oct 23, 2024) – 344 runs
3. Nepal vs Mongolia (Sept 27, 2023) – 314 runs
4. England vs South Africa (Sept 12, 2025) – 304 runs
5. India vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad (Oct 12, 2024) – 297 runs

Conclusion

Abhishek Sharma historic innings not only sealed a dominant win for India but also reshaped the T20 record books. The Nagpur encounter will be remembered as one of the most explosive matches in cricket history, highlighting the evolution of modern T20 batting.

For official match statistics and records, readers can refer to ICC and BCCI platforms as authoritative sources.

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