After India’s win against New Zealand in the second T20I at Raipur, captain Suryakumar Yadav commented: “India will not win only if Abhishek Sharma scores runs.” However, experts and fans alike know that Abhishek Sharma has become a crucial asset for India’s T20 World Cup title defence.
From Humble Beginnings to T20 Superstar
Abhishek made his international debut in Harare in July 2024, starting with a four-ball duck. Since then, he has transformed into a high-impact T20 player.
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In 36 T20I matches, Abhishek has maintained a strike rate of 195.22, scoring two centuries and eight fifties.
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His aggressive batting style consistently puts pressure on the opposition, often forcing them to focus on him while other Indian batsmen capitalize.
During the Asia Cup last year, Pakistan’s team strategized to dismiss him early, knowing it could secure their victory. Yet, even when dismissed in the final, Abhishek’s presence had already created opportunities for India’s middle order, including Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav.
High-Risk, High-Reward Powerplay Mastery
In the third T20I against New Zealand at Guwahati, Abhishek smashed a 20-ball 68 not out, including a 14-ball fifty, India’s second-fastest in T20Is after his mentor Yuvraj Singh.
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He hit a massive 88-meter six off Jacob Duffy to set the tone.
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Remarkably, he scored the highest individual T20I score without playing a single dot ball, demonstrating extreme efficiency and dominance.
Abhishek himself emphasizes the mental aspect of the game: “It’s about the mindset and the atmosphere in the dressing room. My goal is to execute every time I bat.”
Mentorship and Rigorous Preparation
Abhishek credits much of his success to guidance from cricket legends like Yuvraj Singh, Brian Lara, Pat Cummins, and Travis Head.
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He trained across different grounds in North India, facing varying pitch conditions and boundary dimensions, preparing him for high-pressure international matches.
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His father, Raj Kumar Sharma, notes: “He has changed India’s game. I am amazed by his consistency and dedication.”
Crucial Role in India’s T20 World Cup Defence
While players like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya provide bowling and all-round strength, Abhishek’s fear factor in opposition camps gives India a psychological edge.
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His explosive batting in the powerplay often sets India up for early dominance.
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Analysts predict that India’s title defence in the T20 World Cup will heavily rely on Abhishek’s ability to strike early and influence the match tempo.
As discussions begin for the upcoming ODI World Cup, selectors may also consider including him, given his consistency and high-impact batting style.
