Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced a breathtaking batting display against New Zealand in Wellington, recording the highest run rate for a 100-plus opening partnership in men’s T20 internationals.The Indian duo scored at an astonishing 18.13 runs per over, surpassing the previous record of 16.08 set by England’s Jos Buttler and Phil Salt against South Africa at Old Trafford in 2025.Abhishek led the assault with a spectacular 113 off 38 balls, reaching his century in just 35 deliveries. Meanwhile, 15-year-old Sooryavanshi smashed 45 from 18 balls, ensuring New Zealand’s bowlers had little respite.Their opening stand yielded 133 runs in just seven overs, helping India race to a record 118 without loss in the powerplay while chasing 199. India eventually secured a six-wicket victory in 13.2 overs, sealing the series 3-0.
Highest run rates for 100-plus opening partnerships in men’s T20Is
- 18.13 – Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs New Zealand, Wellington, 2026
- 16.08 – Jos Buttler and Phil Salt vs South Africa, Old Trafford, 2025
- 15.00 – Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers vs England, Johannesburg, 2016
- 15.00 – Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani vs Seychelles, Nairobi, 2024
- 14.83 – Shai Hope and Evin Lewis vs England, Gros Islet, 2024
- 14.44 – Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson vs Afghanistan, Delhi, 2026
The record-breaking partnership with Sooryavanshi stands out for its extraordinary scoring rate, underlining India’s aggressive approach at the top of the order.
