In a challenging second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, young Indian opener Abhishek Sharma truly shone. Despite wickets falling consistently around him, Sharma displayed remarkable composure and an impressive range of strokes, notching a fluent half-century. His innings stood out as the sole positive in India’s four-wicket defeat.
Following the match, former India spinner R Ashwin lauded the left-handed batsman, hailing him as the next major batting talent in Indian cricket. Speaking on his popular YouTube channel, Ashwin emphasized Abhishek’s innate flair and his commendable eagerness to learn from cricketing legends.
“I genuinely believe that Abhishek Sharma is India’s upcoming batting superstar,” Ashwin stated. He acknowledged that Sharma faces a unique challenge in controlling his powerful downswing. “I heard he still consults Brian Lara, who famously had a significant backlift and a magnificent bat swing. Abhishek has discussed with Lara how to manage that bat swing specifically to excel in Test cricket.”
Ashwin further elaborated on the young Punjab batter’s continuous efforts to refine his technique. “Even during the washed-out match in Canberra, he was seen discussing bat swing and the pull shot with Shubman Gill. I remember seeing a screenshot from the previous game where he was slightly late on the pull shot. However, he made that crucial adjustment in this match, finding a way to get the ball over the top.”
The seasoned spinner also commended Abhishek’s ability to adapt swiftly to demanding conditions and high-quality bowling. “Today, he boldly stepped out and charged down the pitch. Australia’s bowlers were excellent, delivering tight lines, fuller lengths, and taking pace off the ball. Yet, even against a fast bowler attempting a yorker, where you typically lack room to free your arms, he managed to open up and smash it over covers for a boundary.”
Ashwin concluded his praise by describing Abhishek as a rare talent, possessing both exceptional skill and deep cricketing intelligence. “These are truly special qualities in a player. We all work hard, but for that hard work to truly shine, you need a divine gift, and Abhishek Sharma certainly has that. He thinks deeply about the game and is an exceptionally talented batsman. On a difficult day for India and a challenging pitch, he once again delivered a superb masterclass in effective T20 batsmanship.”