Abhishek Sharma Hits Fastest-Ever T20I Fifty vs New Zealand

India’s aggressive opener “Abhishek Sharma” delivered a breathtaking performance in Guwahati, scripting history with one of the fastest half-centuries in men’s T20 internationals. In the third T20I against “New Zealand”, Sharma’s counter-attacking knock turned an early wobble into a one-sided chase, sealing India’s 3-0 series lead in emphatic fashion.

Early Collapse and Instant Counter-Attack

Chasing a modest target of 154, India suffered an immediate setback when Sanju Samson was dismissed for a golden duck. With pressure mounting in the opening over, Abhishek Sharma took charge from the outset. He attacked the New Zealand bowlers with fearless intent, refusing to let the early loss dictate terms and shifting momentum within minutes.

Record-Breaking Partnership in Guwahati

Sharma stitched together a blistering 53-run stand with Ishan Kishan, who contributed 28, in just 19 balls. The partnership became India’s fastest team fifty in T20 internationals, pushing New Zealand firmly on the back foot. The rapid scoring rate not only neutralised any scoreboard pressure but also set the tone for a swift finish.

Elite List of Fastest T20I Fifties

During the stand, Abhishek Sharma reached his half-century in just 14 balls. This made it the joint third-fastest fifty against a Full Member nation in men’s T20Is. Only “Yuvraj Singh”’s iconic 12-ball fifty against England in 2007 and Jan Frylinck’s 13-ball effort earlier in 2025 are faster. Sharma’s knock reinforced his reputation as one of India’s most fearless top-order batters in the shortest format.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• T20 Internationals are the shortest format of international cricket.
• India’s fastest team fifty in T20Is came in 19 balls at Guwahati.
• Yuvraj Singh holds the record for the fastest T20I fifty (12 balls).
• Full Member nations are permanent members of the ICC.

Series Impact and Platform from Bowlers

The innings capped a roller-coaster series for Sharma, who followed an explosive 84 in the first T20I and a golden duck in the second with this match-winning effort. Earlier, India’s bowlers had laid the foundation by restricting New Zealand to 153 for 9, ensuring the target never looked threatening once Sharma found his rhythm at the top.