A major record in T20 cricket has been rewritten at the T20 World Cup 2026. India’s Abhishek Sharma, who recently held the world record for the fastest 5,000 runs in T20s (by balls faced), has seen his milestone surpassed. New Zealand’s explosive opener Finn Allen broke the record during the match against UAE, achieving the feat in 44 fewer balls.

Finn Allen Smashes Abhishek Sharma’s Record

Abhishek Sharma had reached 5,000 T20 runs in 2,898 balls, breaking Andre Russell’s earlier record of 2,942 balls. However, Finn Allen has now set a new benchmark, reaching the milestone in just 2,858 balls, making him the fastest batter in T20 history to do so.

Record-Breaking Moment Against UAE

Before the match against UAE, Finn Allen needed 38 runs to complete 5,000 T20 runs. He got there in style, reaching the landmark on the 21st ball of his innings. By the end of his knock, Allen had scored 84 runs, taking his overall T20 tally to 5,046 runs and firmly etching his name into the record books.

New Zealand’s Dominant Win

The record came during New Zealand’s emphatic 10-wicket victory over UAE on February 10. Batting first, UAE posted 173/6 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand chased the target in just 15.2 overs without losing a wicket.

• Tim Seifert: 89* off 42 balls (12 fours, 3 sixes)

• Finn Allen: 84 off 50 balls (5 fours, 5 sixes)

The opening partnership completely dismantled the UAE bowling attack.

A New Standard in T20 Cricket

Finn Allen’s record-breaking innings not only powered New Zealand to a dominant win but also reset the standard for batting milestones in T20 cricket. By surpassing Abhishek Sharma’s mark, Allen has further cemented his reputation as one of the most destructive batters in the modern game.