Sunday was a memorable day for Abhishek Sharma as he entered the record books of the Indian cricket team. He became the fourth-youngest player to score a T20I century for India and played the least number of innings.
He reached his century off just 47 balls, having scored his last 50 runs off just 13 balls. He reached his milestone with three consecutive sixes and became the first batsman to achieve this.
Sharma made his T20I debut for India and was unlucky. He made the most of his opportunities in the second T20I with his aggressive style and counter-attacking display. He was adjudged the Player of the Match and in his post-match interaction he thanked his captain Shubman Gill, coach VVS Laxman and the entire support staff for backing him.
Also Read: Watch: 6,6,6: Abhishek Sharma stunningly completes maiden T20I century, receives standing ovation from Shubman Gill & Co.
In a video shared by the BCCI on its official X account, Abhishek Sharma spoke about playing with Shubman Gill’s bat, his interaction with his parents and Yuvraj Singh, and much more.
Abhishek Sharma video calls Yuvraj Singh after scoring a fantastic hundred. ❤️
– The boys from Yuvi school are a hit. pic.twitter.com/1UeEaMoied
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 8, 2024
“We lost the match on Saturday, so after starting well I thought this could be my day. The positive thing was that we didn’t have much time to think about the next match because it was the next day. When I felt I could face a particular player, I did. I got into a rhythm while batting and hence I wanted to go out and express myself,” Abhishek said.
He also spoke about his interaction with Ruturaj Gaikwad. The duo put together 137 runs to give India a good platform for their big final score.
“I also spoke to Rutu. He asked me to go and hit the balls that were in my area and not think about them too much,” Abhishek added.
The left-hander then revealed the reason behind playing with Shubman Gill’s bat and how it has brought him success most of the times.
“This has been going on since we were under-14. Whenever I have played with his bat, I have scored like I did today. Today I also want to tell everyone that I played only with his bat. It was difficult to get his bat because he doesn’t give it away easily. That is my last option when I feel I need to play with his bat to get back on my feet. Special thanks to Shubman for giving me his bat. This was a much-needed innings for me and the team as well,” Sharma said.
He then spoke to his family and also to Yuvraj Singh over a video call. His parents looked very excited while talking to him. They had a big smile on their faces after seeing their son succeed at the international level.
Watch: Abhishek Sharma video calls with his family and Yuvraj Singh from Harare
THE NEW STAR HAS BEEN BORN…!!!!
– Abhishek Sharma has arrived, making his idol “Yuvraj” proud. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Gl4P4nMR4r
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 8, 2024
He also spoke to Yuvraj Singh, whom he idolises. The former Indian cricketer has personally coached Abhishek Sharma and made him the cricketer he is today. The former all-rounder congratulated Abhishek on his feat and also blessed him. The two teams will play the third match in Harare next Wednesday.
Also Read: Watch: Abhishek Sharma’s family celebrates his first T20I century; father and sister jump for joy