Abhishek Sharma’s first-ball six vs Shaheen Afridi springs joy: Family reacts after IND-vs-PAK Asia Cup win

The high-voltage India vs Pakistan Super Four encounter at the Asia Cup 2025 had its defining moment right at the start. Opening batter Abhishek Sharma walked in with confidence and smashed Shaheen Shah Afridi’s very first delivery for a towering six over fine leg. It was a fearless shot, one that electrified the crowd and instantly tilted momentum in India’s favor.

That audacious stroke set the tone for what followed. Abhishek went on to hammer a blistering 74 runs from just 39 balls, striking boundaries at will and keeping Pakistan’s bowling attack under constant pressure. His innings provided India with the perfect launchpad in their chase of 172, ensuring that the contest, often billed as the fiercest rivalry in cricket, looked surprisingly one-sided.

As fans roared inside the stadium, Abhishek’s family had their own special moment. His mother, Manju Sharma, and sister, Komal, were visibly emotional while watching the innings unfold. For them, seeing Abhishek deliver in a high-stakes game against Pakistan was not just a proud cricketing moment but also a validation of years of dedication and sacrifice.

"Hume itna maza aaya. Woh jo first ball pe jo usne chakka maar diya na. Aadat ho gayi hai ab hume (We enjoyed so much, especially when he hit the first ball for a six. We are used to it now)," said his sister in a video shared by journalist Vimal Kumar.

Family’s joy mirrors Abhishek Sharma’s breakthrough

Komal Sharma described the first-ball six as a “goosebumps moment,” explaining that it showed Abhishek’s belief in himself even against a bowler of Afridi’s caliber. She highlighted how the family always knew he had the temperament for the big stage, and this innings was further proof. Manju, equally thrilled, said she could sense her son’s confidence and felt relieved that he executed his plans so well on such a pressure-packed occasion.

Here is how you can watch Asia Cup online.

Beyond the emotional responses, Abhishek’s innings was also a statement of intent for Indian cricket. His aggressive approach at the top allowed India to dominate the powerplay, reducing pressure on the middle order. By the time he departed, the platform was strong enough for India to complete the chase with six wickets in hand.

Abhishek’s ability to take on world-class bowlers right from ball one has now become his trademark. With performances like this, he is carving a space for himself among India’s most dependable match-winners. For his family, though, the joy lies not just in the runs scored, but in watching him rise to the occasion and carry forward the dreams they always nurtured.

Read Also: Asia Cup 2025 Super Four fixture, schedule, and streaming details.