The Asia Cup has seen some amazing batting performances over the years. In the T20 format, several players have made their mark with big scores in high-pressure games. From match-winning knocks to individual brilliance against strong bowling attacks, these innings remain unforgettable. Here’s a look at the top five highest individual scores in Asia Cup T20I history, led by Virat Kohli’s record knock.
5. Sabbir Rahman – 80 vs Sri Lanka (Mirpur, 2016)
In 2016, Bangladesh’s Sabbir Rahman played a key role against Sri Lanka. He made 80 runs from 54 balls, hitting 10 fours and 3 sixes. His innings earned him the Player of the Match award and helped Bangladesh secure a famous victory. It was one of the standout knocks for the home side in that tournament.
4. Rohit Sharma – 83 vs Bangladesh (Mirpur, 2016)
Rohit Sharma, was important in the Indian team’s first match of the 2016 Asia Cup. He made 83 runs from 55 balls with 7 fours and 3 sixes. The innings came under pressure after India lost early wickets, but Rohit’s calm and aggressive batting guided them to a strong total. India went on to win the match, and his knock was praised for both maturity and flair.
3. Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 84 vs Sri Lanka (Sharjah, 2022)
Afghanistan’s young wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz lit up the 2022 Asia Cup with a quickfire 84 runs off 45 balls against Sri Lanka. His knock featured 4 fours and 6 sixes, attacking the bowlers from the start. Gurbaz’s innings gave Afghanistan a strong start, though Sri Lanka eventually won the match. It was a reminder of Afghanistan’s growing strength in world cricket.
2. Babar Hayat – 122 vs Oman (Fatullah, 2016)
Hong Kong’s Babar Hayat is next on the list with a brilliant 122 runs from 60 balls against Oman in the 2016 edition. He struck 9 fours and 7 sixes, displaying fearless batting. Although Hong Kong lost the game, Hayat’s innings is remembered as special because he played for an associate team, showing that great talent is not only found in the big cricket nations.
1. Virat Kohli – 122* vs Afghanistan (Dubai, 2022)
Virat Kohli shares the record for the highest individual score in Asia Cup T20I history. He smashed an unbeaten 122 runs off 61 balls against Afghanistan during the 2022 Asia Cup in Dubai. His innings included 12 fours and 6 sixes, showing both timing and power. This was also his first century in T20 internationals after a long gap, making the moment even more special. Kohli’s innings helped India reach 212/2, and they went on to win the match comfortably.
Summary Table
| Rank | Player | Score | Balls | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli (India) | 122* | 61 | Afghanistan | 2022 |
| 2 | Babar Hayat (Hong Kong) | 122 | 60 | Oman | 2016 |
| 3 | Rahman ullah Gurbaz (AFG) | 84 | 45 | Sri Lanka | 2022 |
| 4 | Rohit Sharma (India) | 83 | 55 | Bangladesh | 2016 |
| 5 | Sabbir Rahman (BAN) | 80 | 54 | Sri Lanka | 2016 |
Conclusion
The Asia Cup T20I has witnessed some unforgettable batting performances. From Virat Kohli’s record-breaking century to Babar Hayat’s fearless knock for Hong Kong, these innings highlight the spirit of the tournament. They not only entertained fans but also showed the depth of cricketing talent across Asia. With every new edition, fans eagerly wait to see who will deliver the next big innings and add their name to this prestigious list.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
