Abhishek Sharma overtakes Sahibzada Farhan, runs to Ishan Kishan at number 1

ByTech Word News

Abhishek Sharma has climbed to the second spot in the latest ICC T20I batting rankings after a good start to India’s ongoing series against Afghanistan. The left-handed opener has gained one place to get past Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan, with only Indian batsman Ishan Kishan ahead of him now.

Abhishek’s rise comes on the back of an explosive start to the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. He smashed 82 off just 32 balls in the opening match in New Delhi, helps India chase Afghan 156 with seven wickets and 38 balls available. His innings helped India seal a seven-wicket win.

He continued his positive run in the second T20I, scoring 39 off 19 balls as India again won by seven wickets to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Abhishek has two innings that have secured him 121 runs in the series so far, with India’s third and final match against Afghanistan still to be played. Sanju Samson also returned to form as he hit 57 off 22 balls in the second T20I.

ICC Ratings for T20I Tests

  • Ishan Kishan — 913 points
  • Abhishek Sharma — 862 points
  • Sahibzada Farhan — 848 points
  • Phil Salt – 799 points
  • Dewald Brevis — 789 points
  • Pathum Nissanka — 751 points
  • If Buttler — 748 points
  • Tilak Varma – 740 points
  • Harry Brook — 734 points

ABHISHEK CLOSING THE GAP TO ISHANA KISHANA

The latest rankings put Ishan Kishan at No. 1, Abhishek moved to No. 2 and Farhan dropped to No. 3. Abhishek is now 51 rating points behind Kishan, keeping the Indian duo at the top of the T20I batting rankings.

Kishan’s position at the top means that India currently occupy the top two spots in the T20I batting rankings. Abhishek was earlier ranked No.1 in the format, while Kishan has also enjoyed a strong run of late. The ICC had previously recorded an Indian 1-2 at the top of the rankings in March, with Abhishek and Kishan occupying the top spots.

Sanju Samson has also advanced significantly in the latest update. His 57 in the second T20I helped him climb four places to 30th in the batting rankings. The knock came as India chased down Afghanistan’s 159 in just 14.5 overs, wrapping up the series with a match to spare.

With one T20I still remaining in the Afghanistan series, Abhishek has another opportunity to close the gap on Kishan. His performances in the opening two matches have already made a significant impact in the latest ICC rankings.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

16 Sep 2026 15:02 IST