The fifth and final T20I between Australia and India is currently underway at The Gabba in Brisbane, with the visitors looking to seal the series. Having taken a 2-1 lead, India need just one more win to clinch the five-match contest, while Australia are fighting to level the series. After being asked to bat first, India got off to a rollicking start, reaching 52 without loss in 4.5 overs, thanks to a brisk partnership between Abhishek Sharma (23 not out) and Shubman Gill (29 not out). However, play has been temporarily stopped due to lightning, momentarily halting India’s momentum in what was shaping up to be a promising innings.
Abhishek Sharma creates history with record-breaking milestone
Amid the exciting start, young opener Abhishek added a remarkable achievement to his name, becoming the fastest player to reach 1000 T20I runs (by balls faced) among Full Member teams. The dynamic left-hander reached the milestone in just 528 balls, surpassing the previous best of 573 balls set by Suryakumar Yadav.
The record highlights Abhishek’s rapid rise in international cricket. His ability to dominate the powerplay overs with fearless hitting and calculated aggression has made him one of India’s most exciting T20 prospects. Since his debut, Abhishek has built a reputation for turning starts into impactful innings, often setting the tone at the top.
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Fastest to 1000 T20I runs (by balls faced) – Full Member Teams
- 528 balls – Abhishek Sharma (India)
- 573 balls – Suryakumar Yadav (India)
- 599 balls – Phil Salt (England)
- 604 balls – Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
- 609 balls – Andre Russell (West Indies) / Finn Allen (New Zealand)
This elite list reflects the growing influence of power hitters in modern T20 cricket. For Abhishek, breaking into such a category at a young age further cements his place among the most promising short-format players in world cricket.
India aim to seal the series in style
India’s openers looked in sublime touch before the interruption, with both Abhishek and Gill punishing the Australian bowlers early. Their positive start has set the tone for what could be a high-scoring affair, provided weather conditions allow play to resume soon.
If India go on to win, they will secure the T20I series 3-1 with a game to spare. For Australia, however, this is a must-win encounter to keep the series alive and share the honors.
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