Can Abhishek Sharma Hit 100 Sixes by Year-End? A Record-Breaking Journey Unfolds

Abhishek Sharma, India’s rising T20 star, has already smashed 50 sixes in 2024. With 19 more T20 games on the horizon, can he achieve the remarkable feat of hitting 100 sixes in a calendar year? Let’s explore his incredible journey and potential to break records.

A Spectacular Start in India Colors

Abhishek Sharma has made a sensational entry into international cricket, filling the shoes of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The dynamic left-hander scored a stunning 46-ball century in just his second T20I game. Although he faltered in a couple of innings, his relentless pursuit of sixes, especially targeting the deep mid-wicket, has been a defining feature of his play.

In the IPL, partnering with Travis Head, Abhishek maintained a strike rate above 200 throughout the season. His aggressive approach faced a brief challenge on the Zimbabwean pitches in Harare, but he adapted brilliantly, converting a slow start into an explosive finish. From 27 off 23 balls, he accelerated to 72 off the next 23 deliveries, showcasing his exceptional ability to shift gears and hit big.

Consistency and Power: Abhishek’s Six-Hitting Prowess

Abhishek’s consistent performances in the IPL and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy over the past two seasons have marked his rise as a top-order powerhouse. Despite competition from Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhishek’s six-hitting capability makes him a valuable asset for India’s T20I setup.

His stats are impressive: since 2023, he has hit 93 sixes, ranking sixth among global top-order batters and second among Indians, just behind Suryakumar Yadav. His strike rate of 185.77 and a six every 7.33 deliveries outshine all other top-order batsmen who have scored at least 1000 runs in this period.

Breaking Records: Aiming for the Top

Abhishek’s 50 sixes in 19 innings this year include 41 as an opener and 9 at number three for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Notably, he has more sixes (50) than fours (44) in 2024, with sixes accounting for over half of his total runs.

Abhishek is on the brink of breaking the Indian top-order record for most T20 sixes in a calendar year, held by Jaiswal with 57 sixes in 2023. The overall Indian record is Suryakumar Yadav’s 85 sixes in 2022. Achieving these milestones will solidify his place in T20 cricket history.

The Ultimate Challenge: Can Abhishek Reach Gayle’s Heights?

Chris Gayle’s record of 135 sixes in a single calendar year remains the gold standard. Only Gayle and Andre Russell have crossed the 100-sixes mark in a year, with Gayle achieving this feat multiple times. Abhishek, with his current form and consistency, has the potential to join this elite club.

While surpassing Gayle’s 135 sixes may seem daunting, Abhishek’s progress this year positions him as a strong contender. With 12 more T20Is for India and participation in Punjab’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he could have up to 19 matches to reach or exceed the 100-sixes milestone.

A Record-Breaking Year Awaits

As Abhishek Sharma continues to dominate the T20 format, his quest for 100 sixes in a calendar year adds an exciting narrative to his career. With his explosive batting style and determination, cricket fans worldwide will be watching closely to see if he can achieve this extraordinary feat.