Abhishek Sharma stars with record century as India beat Zimbabwe in second T20I

India leveled the five-match T20I series 1-1 with a decisive 100-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second match on Sunday at Harare Sports Club.

India's formidable total of 234/2 was spearheaded by Abhishek Sharma's remarkable century. In only his second international innings, Sharma made an indelible mark by scoring a century, hitting seven fours and eight sixes in a blistering 47-ball performance.

Sharma set a unique record by becoming the first player to achieve a century in men's international cricket with three consecutive sixes. Previously, only Shubman Gill had reached a milestone in a similar fashion, hitting three successive sixes to complete his double century in an ODI against New Zealand in 2023.

Sharma's 46-ball century is the joint-third-fastest for India in men's T20Is, matching KL Rahul's feat against West Indies in 2016. The two fastest centuries for India in this format are held by Rohit Sharma (35 balls, 2017) and Suryakumar Yadav (45 balls, 2023), both against Sri Lanka.

In the match, Sharma partnered with Ruturaj Gaikwad to put together a 137-run stand for the second wicket. Gaikwad contributed a solid 77 not out from 47 balls, including 11 fours and a six.

Additionally, Rinku Singh's impressive 48 not out from 22 balls helped propel India to their imposing total.

Zimbabwe, in response, was bowled out for 134, unable to match India's commanding performance.

Zimbabwe began their chase strongly despite losing Innocent Kaia early in the first over. Wesley Madhevere (43) and Brian Bennett (36) showcased aggressive stroke play, propelling the innings forward. Nevertheless, the Indian bowlers exerted control during the middle and final phases of the match.

Luke Jongwe also scored a quickfire 33 off 26 balls. Pacers Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar starred with three wickets each, complemented by Ravi Bishnoi who claimed two wickets.

This bowling effort was crucial as it helped India restrict Zimbabwe's momentum and secure a crucial victory after Zimbabwe had earlier stunned India with a 13-run win in the first T20I.