Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Abhishek Sharma produced one of the most explosive innings in IPL history as he notched up the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the tournament, reaching 136 off just 52 balls* during their chase of a daunting 246-run target set by Punjab Kings.
Abhishek brought up his century in just 40 deliveries, smashing boundaries at will and combining with Travis Head for a brutal onslaught that left the PBKS bowling attack in shambles. The duo put on a 171-run opening stand, which was finally broken in the 13th over when Head departed for 66.
By the end of the 16th over, SRH were cruising at 217/1, needing just 29 runs off the last 24 balls to secure what would be their highest successful chase in IPL history. Abhishek, who has already cracked 13 fours and 10 sixes, continued to toy with the bowling, dispatching Yash Thakur for a boundary to surpass the previous record for the highest individual score by an Indian in IPL.
The standout moments from overs 7 to 15 included:
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Abhishek bringing up his half-century in 19 balls
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A dropped chance by Yuzvendra Chahal off his own bowling
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A merciless 150-run stand between the openers before it was broken
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Head’s acceleration after a watchful start
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Abhishek’s masterful ton, showcasing confidence and flair
With Heinrich Klaasen supporting him at the other end and just over 6 runs per over needed, SRH appear well on course for a stunning win at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
