IND vs SA: Abhishek Sharma Eyes Virat Kohli's 9-Year-Old T20 Record, Needs 82 Runs in Next 3 Matches

The year 2025 has been nothing short of spectacular for Abhishek Sharma on the cricket field, particularly in the fast-paced T20 format. His consistent and aggressive batting has garnered significant attention, and he now stands on the cusp of etching his name in the annals of Indian cricket history by challenging a formidable 9-year-old record held by none other than the legendary Virat Kohli. Abhishek Sharma, who has rapidly become an integral part of India's T20 setup, is currently engaged in a high-stakes T20 series against South Africa. The remaining three matches of this series present a golden opportunity for him to surpass Kohli's long-standing record and become the Indian batsman with the most T20 runs in a single calendar year.

Virat Kohli's Enduring 9-Year-Old Record

Virat Kohli set a remarkable benchmark in T20 cricket back in 2016, accumulating an astounding 1614 runs across 31 T20 matches. This record has stood as a testament to his exceptional consistency and mastery in the. Shortest format of the game for nearly a decade, remaining unbroken by any other Indian batsman. Kohli's performance in 2016 was a display of his unparalleled ability to score heavily and consistently, solidifying his status as one of the greatest T20 batsmen. Now, Abhishek Sharma has the chance to eclipse this monumental figure, which wouldn't only be a significant personal. Achievement but also a landmark moment in Indian cricket, highlighting his burgeoning talent and potential to dominate the T20 arena.

Abhishek Sharma's Remarkable 2025 T20 Season

Abhishek Sharma's batting prowess in the T20 format during 2025 has been truly outstanding. So far this year, he has amassed an impressive 1533 runs in 39 T20 matches. His prolific run-scoring has been punctuated by three magnificent centuries and nine impactful half-centuries,. Showcasing both his aggressive intent and his ability to convert starts into substantial scores. This consistent run-getting has firmly established him as one of the premier T20 batsmen in Indian cricket. Sharma has already surpassed Suryakumar Yadav's tally of 1503 runs from 2022, a significant achievement that places him higher on the list of most T20 runs by an Indian in a calendar year. With just 82 more runs needed to break Virat Kohli's 1614-run record, Abhishek is poised to write a new chapter in Indian T20 cricket history.

Impact in T20 Internationals

Beyond his overall T20 exploits, Abhishek Sharma has also made a significant mark in T20 International matches while representing India in 2025. He has scored 790 runs in T20 Internationals this year, a figure that underscores his growing presence and influence on the international stage. His ability to perform at the highest level makes him a crucial asset for the Indian team, particularly when the team requires explosive starts and stability in the middle order. These T20I statistics highlight his versatility and adaptability to the demands of the shortest format, suggesting that he's capable of handling pressure and delivering crucial runs in high-stakes international encounters.

His performances indicate a bright future for him in the national squad. **Crucial India vs. The ongoing five-match T20 series between India and South Africa is currently finely poised at 1-1, adding an extra layer of excitement and intensity to the contest. The third T20 match of the series is scheduled to be played on December 14 in the picturesque setting of Dharamshala. This particular match holds immense importance for both teams, as the winner will gain a crucial lead in the series. The Indian team, playing on home soil, will be eager to assert its dominance and move ahead, while South Africa will be equally determined to stage a comeback. The outcome of this match won't only Notably influence the fate of the series but will also. Be pivotal for Abhishek Sharma's record-breaking pursuit, as it provides him with another opportunity to accumulate the necessary runs.

Abhishek's Performance in the Series So Far

Abhishek Sharma's performance in the ongoing series against South Africa has been a mixed bag, while in the first T20I played in Cuttack, he was dismissed cheaply, though the Indian team went on to secure a dominant 101-run victory. In the second T20I held in New Chandigarh, Abhishek opened the innings once again and contributed a quickfire 17 runs off just 8 deliveries, which included two powerful sixes, while despite his brief but impactful knock, the Indian team unfortunately suffered a defeat in that match. During this innings, Abhishek Sharma also achieved a notable milestone, joining an exclusive group of Indian power-hitters by completing 50 sixes in T20 Internationals in a calendar year, further demonstrating his aggressive batting style and ability to clear the ropes. His performances suggest that he has the capability to score big, and expectations. Are high for him to deliver more impactful innings in the upcoming games.

The Road Ahead and Record Potential

For Abhishek Sharma, the remaining three matches aren't only critical for India's quest to win the series against South Africa but are also decisive for his personal record chase. With only 82 runs separating him from Virat Kohli's 9-year-old record, achieving this feat would secure him a special place in Indian cricket history. Given his current form and aggressive batting approach, this target appears well within his reach. Should he succeed in breaking this record, it would mark a significant milestone in his burgeoning career and further solidify his position as a key player for the Indian team in the future. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await to see if Abhishek Sharma can indeed claim this historic record and write a new chapter in Indian cricket.