Abhishek Sharma. (File photo)

NEW DELHI: Abhishek Sharma’s strong form in T20 cricket this year continued as he became the first Indian batter to hit 100 sixes in the format in a single calendar year. The left-handed Punjab opener reached the mark while scoring 62 from 34 balls in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) Elite Group C match against Services. His innings included eight fours and three sixes, and he struck at 182.35.In T20s this year, Abhishek has made 1,499 runs at an average of 42.82 and a strike rate of 204.22. He has scored three centuries and nine fifties, with a highest score of 148, also made during the ongoing SMAT.In the current SMAT season, Abhishek has scored 304 runs at an average of 50.66 and a strike rate close to 250. His tally includes one century and two fifties, making him the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.In the match against Services, Punjab were asked to bat first. They later put up 233/6 in 20 overs after a 106-run stand between Prabhsimran Singh and Abhishek. Prabhsimran scored 50 from 28 balls with seven fours and two sixes. Anmolpreet Singh added 34 off 23 balls with three fours and a six, while Naman Dhir made 54 off 22 balls with two fours and six sixes.For Services, Abhishek Tiwari and Vikas Gaur took two wickets each.Punjab won the match by 73 runs. Punjab are now placed at the top of Group C with 4 wins and 2 losses in 6 matches.