India Sets Powerplay Record as Abhishek Sharma Scores Fastest Fifty in T20 World Cup Final

In the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final at Narendra Modi Stadium, India posted a record-breaking total of 255/5 against New Zealand. Opener Abhishek Sharma, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, scored a rapid 52 off 21 balls, registering the fastest fifty in a T20 World Cup final and helping India set the highest powerplay score of 92 runs without loss. Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan also contributed significant half-centuries, marking the first time India's top three batters scored fifties in a T20 World Cup final. New Zealand's tactical decisions, including dropping specialist off-spinner Cole McConchie, were widely noted as factors in India's dominant start.