Abhishek Sharma creates T20 world record with 69 sixes in calendar yr

Hyderabad: Indian opener Abhishek Sharma has etched his name in the record books, becoming the highest six-hitter in men’s international T20 cricket in a calendar year. The young batter achieved the historic feat during India’s fourth T20 match against the West Indies in Hyderabad, smashing his 69th six of 2026.

Abhishek surpassed the previous record held by former India captain Suryakumar Yadav, who struck 68 sixes in 31 matches in 2022. Abhishek reached the milestone in just 33 matches, underlining his explosive form and growing dominance in the shortest format.

The record-breaking moment came in the ninth over of the innings when Abhishek launched Shamar Springer’s delivery into the stands. Despite a relatively quiet start, with teammate Sanju Samson taking charge of the scoring early on and the West Indies bowlers maintaining disciplined lines, the left-hander produced the decisive blow to claim the landmark.

Abhishek has been in sensational form throughout 2026. He began the year with a blistering 84 off 35 balls against New Zealand in Nagpur, smashing eight sixes in the innings. He followed that performance with a remarkable century against Afghanistan, scoring 108 off 34 balls, including 11 sixes.

India’s Ishan Kishan is currently the closest challenger to Abhishek’s tally, with 52 sixes this year. However, with India still scheduled to play six more T20 internationals in 2026, Abhishek has a golden opportunity to push his tally into three figures and extend his remarkable record.

The milestone further highlights the Indian opener’s extraordinary power-hitting ability and his impact on international T20 cricket.