Punjab’s explosive opener Abhishek Sharma unleashed another record-breaking blitz, becoming the first Indian cricketer to hammer 100 sixes in one year. The landmark moment came in Hyderabad during their SMAT 2025-26 showdown against Services, further elevating his reputation as a fearless big hitter.

Abhishek Sharma kept the scoreboard moving in the match, blasting a rapid 62 from just 34 deliveries, laced with eight boundaries and three towering hits. One of those big strikes carried him into history as the first Indian batter to cross 100 sixes in a single year.

The left-hander has now launched 101 sixes in the calendar year, achieving the feat in just 36 T20 knocks. His tally stands at 1,499 runs at an average of 42.82 and a strike rate of 204.22. Along the way, he has stacked up nine half-centuries and three tons, making 2025 a career-defining year.

Sharma chipped in with the ball as well, picking up two key wickets to round off a commanding all-round show. Punjab cruised to a 73-run win over Services, and he rightly walked away with the Player of the Match award.

Earlier in the tournament, Abhishek lit up the stage with a blazing 32-ball ton against Bengal, peppering the field with seven boundaries and 11 towering hits. He didn’t stop there as his mayhem continued with a monstrous 148 off 52 balls, including eight fours and 16 sixes. Thanks to his carnage, Punjab stormed to 310/5, the highest-ever score in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy history.

The youngster stands third overall among run-getters in the competition, amassing 304 runs from six innings, striking at a stunning 249.18 while averaging over 50. With 920 rating points, he remains the top-ranked T20I batter in the world. His next assignment is on December 9, when India will face South Africa in a five-match T20I series.