'Can’t express my delight' - Father Rajkumar Sharma thanks supporters after Abhishek's swashbuckling ton

The fifth T20I of the series between India and England belonged entirely to Abhishek Sharma. His 54-ball 135-run knock smashed quite a few records as the hosts ended up posting 247 on the board in the first innings. England ended up getting skittled for only 97, out of which two dismissals were secured by Abhishek himself. 

Abhishek's father and coach and ex-Ranji Trophy cricketer, Rajkumar Sharma, expressed the entire family's delight at Abhishek's recent outing and expressed gratitude to the vocal Wankhede crowd. 

“My daughter and wife were there (at the venue in Mumbai) to watch Abhishek batting live. I saw it on television. It was a really proud moment for us. I can't express my delight, thank you to everyone who supported him," Rajkumar was quoted as saying by News18.

Coming to Abhishek's ruthless knock, he struck seven fourd and 13 sixes at a colossal strike rate of 228.57. The 13 maximums hit by Abhishek became the most for India in men's T20Is, going past Rohit Sharma's 10 against Sri Lanka in 2017.

Abhishek missed the milestone for the fastest T20I ton by an Indian by just three deliveries. He brought up his second T20I century in 37 deliveries. Overall, Abhishek's hundred was the eighth-fastest in men’s T20Is.

Abhishek was handed the ball as the sixth-change for the hosts. His lone over produced the wickets of Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton. He was ultimately provided the Player of the Match accolade for his stunning display as India ended up winning the T20I series by a comprehensive 4-1 margin.

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They now take on England in a three-match ODI series before heading over to the United Arab Emirates for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Notably, Abhishek is not a part of the ODI squads for neither the bilateral series nor the marquee ODI tournament. He is yet to make his debut for the 50-over national setup.