Abhishek Sharma reported to be in line for India T20I vice-captaincy
On September 23, 2026, reports by Vaibhav Bhola of News 24 said Abhishek Sharma is likely to be named India’s T20I vice-captain after his 108 off 34 in the final match of India’s three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi.
India recently completed their three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, with the final game played in New Delhi, where the left-handed opener produced a standout innings, scoring 108 runs from just 34 balls. Abhishek reached his century in only 30 balls, breaking Rohit Sharma‘s record for the fastest T20I hundred by an Indian batter. He struck 11 sixes and nine fours as India posted 221/7 before bowling Afghanistan out for 94.
Abhishek finished the series with 209 runs and received both Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards. Those performances have pushed him into consideration for a larger role within India’s T20I setup. There has been no official confirmation of any appointment.
According to the News 24 report by Vaibhav Bhola, Abhishek Sharma is among the names under consideration for a bigger leadership role and is likely to become vice-captain of the team. The development coincides with Ajit Agarkar preparing to step down as chairman of the BCCI senior men’s selection committee. With a change expected in the selection setup, selectors are reportedly exploring fresh names for the leadership group.
The report also notes Abhishek has received backing from captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Gautam Gambhir. After his record-breaking century against Afghanistan, Abhishek said: “It’s very important for the captain and the coach to be on your side. You have to get surety. I feel this is because of them as well.”
Shreyas Iyer is leading India in the current T20I setup. He scored a 30-ball century, becoming the fastest Indian batter to score a century in T20I cricket. For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
No formal announcement has yet been made regarding a vice-captaincy appointment; with Ajit Agarkar preparing to step down and the selection setup expected to change, a final decision on any new leadership role for Abhishek Sharma remains pending.