In India’s emphatic 48‑run victory over New Zealand in the first T20I at Nagpur, seasoned opener Abhishek Sharma grabbed the headlines with a fiery 84 off just 35 balls. His innings featured a quick 50 off 22 deliveries and helped India post an imposing 238/7. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar expressed amazement at Sharma’s display, noting the stark difference between today’s aggressive batting and his own era.
After the match, Gavaskar humorously remarked that Abhishek “takes the same number of balls to reach a fifty as I needed just to get off the mark,” underlining how the modern approach has revolutionized the shortest format. You can watch the video here:
Sunil Gavaskar on Abhishek Sharma:
"He gets to his half-century in the number of balls I used to take just to get on the mark." 😭pic.twitter.com/K135zhJIf0
— GillTheWill (@GillTheWill77) January 22, 2026
Abhishek Sharma’s fearless approach was on full display throughout his innings. He clarified that his attacking style stems from careful planning and intent rather than recklessness, noting that while opposition teams strategize against him, he trusts his instincts.
His explosive knock not only secured a 1‑0 lead for India in the five‑match T20I series but also highlighted why he is considered one of the most thrilling young prospects in cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Gautam Gambhir Breaks Silence On Controversial ‘Unlimited Authority’ Issue After IND vs NZ T20
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir posted a measured yet pointed message on X following Congress leader Shashi Tharoor’s public praise of his leadership ahead of India’s commanding 48‑run win in the first T20 against New Zealand. Gambhir’s post, marked by calm authority and quiet confidence, seemed to address not only Tharoor’s compliments but also the broader discussions surrounding his role.
“Thanks a lot Dr @ShashiTharoor! When the dust settles, truth & logic about a coach’s supposedly ‘unlimited authority’ will become clear. Till then I’m amused at being pitted against my own who are the very best!” Gambhir wrote, referring to the attention and rumors around his role, while expressing his trust in the team and the system he works in.
Thanks a lot Dr @ShashiTharoor! When the dust settles, truth & logic about a coach’s supposedly “unlimited authority” will become clear. Till then I’m amused at being pitted against my own who are the very best! https://t.co/SDNzLt73v5
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 21, 2026
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