Abhishek Sharma Breaks Virat Kohli’s Record in Asia Cup 2025 Clash vs Pakistan

Abhishek Sharma Makes History in India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Match

The India vs Pakistan rivalry always brings excitement and drama, and the 2025 Asia Cup match in Dubai was no exception. Abhishek Sharma made history by breaking one of Virat Kohli’s long-standing records, leading India to a seven-wicket rout at the Dubai International Stadium on a hot day on Sunday (September 14).

Chasing a challenging target of 128, the 25-year-old left-hander gave India a quick start. The left-hander scored 31 runs from just 13 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. Remarkably, Abhishek hit a four and a six from the first two deliveries he received from Shaheen Afridi, putting Pakistan back on their heels immediately.

Abhishek Sharma just beat a record held by Virat Kohli.

Sharma’s quick hitting helped him make a new record. He scored 31 runs, which is now the most by any Indian batter during the powerplay against Pakistan in T20Is. Virat Kohli had the old record of 29 runs, which he made in the 2022 Asia Cup at the same place.

Most Runs by an Indian in Powerplay vs Pakistan (T20Is)

Interestingly, Abhishek’s tally is also the third-highest powerplay score in India vs Pakistan T20I history, behind Pakistan’s Nasir Jamshed (34 in 2012) and Imran Nazir (33 in 2007).

Impact of Abhishek’s Knock

Although he was out as early as the fourth over, Abhishek’s power-packed innings made sure that India’s chase was done and dusted easily. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s stellar 47* (37) led the run chase as India reached the target with 25 balls remaining.

The victory is doubly sweet as it keeps India’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2025 on track and also cements the name of Abhishek Sharma as one of the most explosive and impactful T20 batters for India.

Abhishek Sharma: A Year to Remember

This is not the first time Abhishek Sharma has shown his ability to rule powerplays. Earlier this year, he scored 57 runs in a powerplay against England at the Wankhede Stadium as part of his record innings of 135 runs—the highest score ever by an Indian in a T20I.

Given his ability to free his hands against any class bowler, Abhishek is emerging as India’s powerplay specialist and is capable of taking on any bowling attack from the very first ball.

After a big win against Pakistan, India wants to keep the ball rolling in the next few group-stage games. With Abhishek Sharma’s killer batting at the start and Suryakumar Yadav leading the charge, the Men in Blue could be strong contenders for the Asia Cup 2025.