Abhishek Sharma's stunning knock in the T20I series opener against England made Aakash Chopra draw a slight parallel to Rohit Sharma, highlighting the belief fans are showing in the young opener as he silences critics with a defining performance.

However, Abhishek said his captain and coach have told him never to change his intent, and that's what has given him the clarity to play fearless cricket.

Abhishek Sharma destroyed the England bowling attack with a sensational fifty in the first T20I of the 5-match series. Abhishek hit his fifty in just 20 balls, which was second fastest by an Indian player in the format.

KOLKATA, India — Abhishek Sharma scored a 20-ball half-century as India beat England by seven wickets Wednesday in the first T20 of their five-match series. India’s opener smacked five fours ...

A blistering 79 (34) from Abhishek Sharma powered India to victory against England in the 1st T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Abhishek attacked the star England bowlers as India chased down 133 in just 12.5 overs. He also added pivotal stands with Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma.

Abhishek Sharma made a quickfire 79 in the first match in Kolkata where India scored a facile seven-wicket victory.

While England found the going tough against India's spin trio, Abhishek Sharma wrapped up an easy win with a blistering knock

India has won the toss and elected to bowl first in the series-opening T20 against England's cricketers in Kolkata.

Samson, mostly prefers to go in the V, Abhishek is stronger on the square. Samson uses his shoulders more, Abhishek relies more on bat-swing thanks to his top-hand grip. It allows him to slice deliveries, rather than employ the fierce cut like Samson.

India ride on Abhishek Sharma's 34-ball 79 and a clinical display from bowlers as the hosts beat England by 7 wickets in the first T20I. India take 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Abhishek Sharma now holds a T20I record that was previously jointly held by Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and four other Indian cricketers.