Indian opener Abhishek Sharma made headlines with a remarkable performance against Australia, scoring 68 runs off just 37 balls in the second T20I at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. His explosive innings included a record-breaking half-century achieved in just 23 deliveries, marking his sixth T20I fifty. This feat also tied him with notable players such as Phil Salt, Evin Lewis, and Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav for the most instances of scoring a 50-plus total in under 25 balls among players from full member nations.
In other significant developments, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to make his return to the Indian national team during the upcoming home series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on November 30. Pandya had been sidelined due to a quadriceps injury sustained during the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup held in the UAE, which resulted in his absence from India’s recent series against Australia. Reports suggest that he is currently at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, focusing on his recovery.
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant’s return to competitive cricket did not go as hoped, as he struggled with the bat in his comeback match for India A against South Africa A in Bengaluru. He was dismissed for only 17 runs from 20 balls, while teenage cricketer Ayush Mhatre led the team with a solid 65 runs, contributing to India A’s first innings total of 234.
In addition, a thrilling performance by West Indies fast bowler Romario Shepherd saw him achieve a hat-trick against Bangladesh in their third T20I, where his impressive figures of 3-36 helped his team secure a clean sweep of the series, winning by five wickets.
On the first-class circuit, Pakistan bowler Mohammad Abbas added to his accolades by claiming his 51st five-wicket haul in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, joining an elite list of bowlers who have achieved this feat since 2001. Abbas continues to impress as he aims to secure a spot in Pakistan’s national team.
These events not only highlight the competitive spirit in international cricket but also showcase emerging talents and returning veterans, promising an exciting season ahead.