NEW DELHI: Opener Abhishek Sharma produced a stunning knock for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings, smashing the fastest half-century in the franchise’s history. The left-hander reached his fifty in just 15 balls, breaking his own previous record of 16 balls, and setting the tone early after SRH were asked to bat first.Abhishek began cautiously but quickly shifted gears, taking full control of the innings.
The highlight came in the fifth over against Matthew Short, where he unleashed a flurry of shots and collected 25 runs, including three fours and two consecutive sixes. That over helped him race to his milestone in emphatic fashion and put immediate pressure on the CSK bowlers.He continued his aggressive approach before being dismissed in the eighth over. Jamie Overton bowled a hard-length delivery, and Abhishek attempted to guide it towards third man but edged it behind. Sanju Samson completed the catch and was confident enough to push for a review, which confirmed the dismissal. Abhishek walked back after a superb 59 off just 22 balls, hitting six fours and four sixes, giving SRH a strong platform.Abhishek has been in excellent touch throughout IPL 2026 and remains a key figure at the top of the order. Known for his fearless batting, he has consistently provided quick starts for his team. He recently became only the second SRH player to cross 100 sixes for the franchise, underlining his impact as a power-hitter.His performances this season include a brisk 48 off 21 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders and a fiery 74 off 28 against Punjab Kings. With 125 runs in five matches, including two half-centuries, Abhishek continues to play a crucial role in SRH’s batting lineup.