Yuvraj’s iconic 12-ball fifty against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup remains one of the most celebrated moments in the format’s history.
Abhishek came tantalisingly close to the record during the third T20I against New Zealand, reaching his half-century in just 14 balls. While the 25-year-old later described breaking Yuvraj’s feat as “almost impossible,” Ashwin dismissed the comment as modesty, insisting that Abhishek possesses the rare ability needed to rewrite history.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised Abhishek’s fearless approach and extraordinary bat speed. He pointed out that even mistimed shots were clearing the boundary with ease, highlighting an instance in Guwahati where a straight six came off the bottom of the bat yet sailed comfortably over the ropes.
Ashwin went on to describe Abhishek as “God’s own child,” lauding his dominance during the powerplay and his capacity to continue attacking regardless of wickets falling around him. According to the veteran spinner, Abhishek’s natural timing and aggressive intent set him apart from his contemporaries.
Abhishek’s blistering knock, combined with Suryakumar Yadav’s rapid 57 off 26 balls, powered India to a commanding eight-wicket victory while chasing 154 in just 10 overs. The emphatic win sealed the five-match T20I series for India, underlining the team’s growing dominance in the shortest format.
The match also stood out for India’s relentless batting, with New Zealand managing only two overs conceding fewer than 11 runs. After the early dismissal of Sanju Samson, Abhishek, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar dismantled the bowling attack, registering one of India’s most crushing T20I wins against a top-tier opposition.