India completed a 3-0 T20I series sweep against Afghanistan on September 17, securing a 127-run victory at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The win was anchored by opener Abhishek Sharma, who set a new record for the fastest T20I century by an Indian.
Abhishek reached his hundred in 30 deliveries, also surpassing the record for the fastest century by any batter from a Full Member nation. His innings powered India to a total of 221-7. During the first six overs, India reached 100-0, marking the team’s highest-ever powerplay score in the format.
In the bowling department, India brought in Vidarbha pacer Yash Thakur for Arshdeep Singh. Captain Shreyas Iyer confirmed the change at the toss, stating, “One change – Yash comes in for Arsh.” Arshdeep was rested for workload management ahead of the upcoming Asian Games. Afghanistan’s chase failed to gain traction as they were bowled out for 94.
Following the match, Abhishek attributed his record-breaking performance to a simplified mindset. “It’s just watch the ball and play according to it. It’s very simple from day one. I just want to express myself. Just see the ball and hit the ball,” he said.
Analysis: The 100-run powerplay highlights a shift in India’s top-order approach, prioritizing maximum aggression from the opening delivery. For Abhishek, the century represents a return to international form after a quiet period, strengthening his position in India’s T20 rotation.
The Indian squad will now transition to the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. The team is scheduled to play a quarter-final match against Japan on September 18. Afghanistan concludes the Friendship Cup series without a victory and will also turn their attention to the Asian Games schedule.
