IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma Achieves Record-Breaking 15-Ball Fifty for SRH
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Hyderabad, April 18 (NationPress) - Indian cricketer Abhishek Sharma has etched his name in the records by achieving a remarkable 15-ball half-century, the fastest in history for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), during their IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday.
The aggressive left-handed batsman shattered the previous franchise record of 16 balls, which he had established against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2024. This record was matched by his opening partner, Travis Head, on two occasions that season against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
After being sent in to bat following a lost toss, Abhishek began his innings tentatively but quickly shifted gears, attacking the bowlers with audacity. The pivotal moment of his batting came in the fifth over bowled by Matthew Short, where he unleashed an onslaught, scoring 25 runs, which included three boundaries and two consecutive sixes, propelling him to his record-breaking fifty.
His spectacular innings came to a close in the eighth over when Jamie Overton delivered a hard-length ball. Abhishek attempted to steer it towards the third man but instead edged it to the wicketkeeper, where Sanju Samson took a sharp catch. Samson was confident enough to urge the captain for a review, which ultimately confirmed the out.
Abhishek exited the field after scoring an impressive 59 runs off just 22 balls, striking six fours and four sixes, giving his team a solid foundation.
He has been in exceptional form throughout IPL 2026, playing a vital role as a dynamic opener for Hyderabad. Recently, he became only the second player in SRH history to surpass 100 sixes for the team. His performances this season also feature a quickfire 48 runs off 21 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and an explosive 74 runs off 28 balls versus Punjab Kings (PBKS). As the leading T20I batter, he has accumulated 125 runs over five matches this season, including two half-centuries.