Abhishek Sharma hits 58-ball 148 in SMAT

HYDERABAD: The record-breaking Abhishek Sharma bludgeoned Mohammed Shami-led Bengal attack into submission with a 52-ball 148, which comprised a staggering 16 sixes, to power Punjab to a 112-run win in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Group C match.

- Agencies

Playing in the manner that best defines his batting, Abhishek raced to a 12-ball half-century, which is the joint-second-fastest by an Indian in men’s T20 cricket. Thanks to his explosive knock against an incisive attack spearheaded by seasoned campaigner Shami and the nippy Akash Deep, Punjab amassed an imposing 310/5 batting first. Bengal were stopped at 198/9 in their allotted 20 overs despite a 66-ball 130 by skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran, who hit eight sixes and 13 fours.