In what turned out to be a historic night at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Abhishek Sharma delivered a knock for the ages for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Abhishek Sharma’s redemption: From being in tremendous pressure to the IPL history maker
Abhishek, who had managed just 51 runs in his first five innings this season, was under mounting pressure as expectations grew and SRH reeled from back-to-back losses. But on this night, everything clicked for Abhishek. After getting a life early in his innings – dropped twice and dismissed off a no-ball by Yash Thakur – he made PBKS pay. With calculated aggression and fearless shot-making, he dismantled the PBKS bowling attack, slamming 141 runs off just 55 balls. His innings featured 14 boundaries and 10 towering sixes and came at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 256.36. It was not only the highest individual score by an Indian in IPL history but also the centerpiece of SRH’s chase of 215, which they completed in just 18.3 overs – marking the second-highest successful chase in IPL history.
His heartfelt gesture toward the fans made Abhishek’s innings even more memorable. After reaching his half-century in just 19 balls, he pulled out a folded note from his pocket that read, “This one is for Orange Army,”. That simple gesture reflected the emotional connect he shares with the SRH fanbase and his desire to repay their unwavering support.
“THIS ONE IS FOR THE ORANGE ARMY.” 🧡
– Abhishek Sharma’s heartfelt message after his sensational century! ❤️A special moment as SRH owner Kavya Maran celebrates by warmly hugging Abhishek’s mother in the stands; emotions running high at Uppal! 🙌#Cricket #AbhishekSharma… pic.twitter.com/K1p81zx6wj
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) April 12, 2025
Also WATCH: Fans go wild as Abhishek Sharma lights up Uppal stadium with maiden century in SRH vs PBKS clash at IPL 2025
Abhishek credits two Indian greats after receiving POTM award
Post-match, while accepting the Player of the Match award, Abhishek didn’t just bask in the glory of his record-breaking feat – he took a moment to thank two individuals who have been instrumental in his journey: Yuvraj Singh and Suryakumar Yadav. He described how Yuvi paaji, his mentor, had been in constant touch with him, offering guidance during tough times. Abhishek also gave a shoutout to India’s T20I skipper, Suryakumar, for being a source of support and motivation.
“We did not talk anything, we just wanted to express and play the natural game. This one is very special and I was thinking that I wanted to break the losing streak, it was very tough as a player and as a youngster, but the mood in the team was very good. Special mention to Yuvi (paaji), I have been talking to him and also thanks to Suryakumar Yadav as well. I have been in touch with him and he has been there for me,” Abhishek said while receiving Player of the Match award.
With their confidence now restored, SRH will be keen to ride this wave of momentum as they prepare for two crucial matches against Mumbai Indians (MI) – first away at the Wankhede Stadium on April 17, and then at home on April 23.
Also WATCH: IPL 2025 – [6,6,6,6] Marcus Stoinis brutally destroys Mohammed Shami during SRH vs PBKS clash
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