India opener Abhishek Sharma has achieved a historic milestone in T20 International cricket, becoming the first batter to hit 100 sixes during the powerplay. The left-hander reached the landmark in the second T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch on October 24, underlining his reputation as one of the most aggressive opening batters in the shortest format.

Abhishek brought up the record during India's run chase when he struck New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry over extra cover for a six in the third over. The shot took his career tally of powerplay sixes in men's T20Is to 100, placing him ahead of several established names in international cricket.

Abhishek Sharma Surpasses Rohit Sharma's Record

Abhishek had already moved past former India captain Rohit Sharma's tally of 98 powerplay sixes during the opening match of the series. His latest achievement took him to the landmark figure of 100, with New Zealand's Martin Guptill also among the leading six-hitters in this category.

The milestone reflects Abhishek's attacking approach at the top of the order. Since making his T20I debut in 2024, he has regularly looked to put bowlers under pressure during the first six overs, when fielding restrictions create opportunities to clear the boundary.

According to the match report, Abhishek averages a six every 7.77 balls in the powerplay. That rate highlights how frequently he turns scoring opportunities into maximums, making him an important part of India's aggressive batting strategy.

Abhishek Sharma Falls After Making 27

Despite creating history, Abhishek could not convert his start into a substantial innings in Christchurch. He scored 27 runs off 21 deliveries before New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner dismissed him in the ninth over.

His departure briefly increased the pressure on India during the chase, with Santner taking four wickets for 21 runs. However, India eventually found a way through the New Zealand bowling attack to secure another victory.

ABHISHEK SHARMA BACK TO BACK BOUNDRY #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/49uc2n2IXd

— CricDiaries (@abhi_9874) October 24, 2026

India Beat New Zealand to Take 2-0 Series Lead

India chased down New Zealand's total of 180/5, winning the second T20I by four wickets and taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Tilak Varma played a decisive role with an unbeaten 51 off 26 balls, while Nitish Kumar Reddy remained not out on 26. Their contributions helped India complete the chase despite Santner's impressive spell.

The victory strengthened India's position in the series, while Abhishek's record added another highlight to the contest.

What Makes Abhishek Sharma's Record Significant?

Reaching 100 powerplay sixes in men's T20Is is a notable achievement because it demonstrates sustained boundary-hitting rather than a single explosive performance. Abhishek's ability to attack from the opening overs gives India a potentially decisive advantage, although his consistency and ability to build longer innings remain important to his overall impact.

With the series continuing, the left-hander will have further opportunities to build on the record and strengthen his position among international cricket's leading power-hitters.