Abhishek Sharma's lean patch continues: Is the clock ticking for the young left-hander? | Cricket News – Times of India
NEW DELHI: Once touted as one of Indian cricket’s brightest young stars, young batter Abhishek Sharma now finds himself under intense scrutiny due to his recent batting struggles at the top of the order. After a promising start to his T20I career marked by a sensational century, Abhishek’s form has dipped significantly, sparking questions about his future in the squad.
Abhishek entered the international T20 scene with high expectations, thanks to his explosive performances in the Indian Premier League. He earned the call-up in the shortest format of the game due to his ability to launch the assault from the word go.
His debut, however, was far from ideal. Playing against Zimbabwe at the Harare Cricket Ground, Abhishek was dismissed for a first-ball duck, a disappointing start for the talented left-hander. He stood momentarily at the crease before walking back quietly, knowing he would need to redeem himself quickly.
Next day, Abhishek seized his opportunity.
He returned to the crease with renewed confidence and scored a blistering 46-ball century, showcasing his ability to dominate bowlers. But since that exhilarating knock, Abhishek has struggled to sustain his form.
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Since his century in July, Abhishek has played in eight T20I matches but has yet to cross the 20-run mark in any innings. In total, he has scored just 70 runs, including three single-digit dismissals. Despite being entrusted with the opener’s role, he has been unable to provide India with the solid starts they seek from their top order.
In the ongoing four-match T20I series against Proteas in South Africa, Abhishek was again given a chance to open alongside Sanju Samson.
The stage was set for Abhishek to regain his lost touch but his performances have been disappointing.
In the first T20I, he managed only 7 runs, followed by a paltry 4 in the next game in Gqeberha. His dismissals in both matches were strikingly similar. Abhishek fell prey to bouncers from Gerald Coetzee, who set him up with short balls that the young left-hander tried to dispatch, only to find himself trapped. These dismissals exposed Abhishek’s tendency to play hurried or rash shots.
With the third T20I scheduled for Wednesday, Abhishek faces what could be a pivotal moment. If he fails to perform, the team management may be forced to explore other options for the opener’s role.
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Despite mounting pressure, Abhishek’s father and coach Raj Kumar Sharma remains optimistic about his son’s potential.
Raj Kumar believes that his son is not out of form but just needs one strong innings to regain his confidence.
“Abhishek is not out of form. He just needs an innings to get back into his run-making groove. He has worked very hard on his game, and I’m sure he’ll put up a good score soon,” Raj Kumar said.
Raj Kumar also pointed out Abhishek’s ability to bounce back.
“A good knock is just around the corner for Abhishek. I haven’t spoken to him, but as far as I know, he must be introspecting and reviewing the deliveries and shots that led to his dismissals. He scored a century right after a duck on his debut. Look at his temperament; he managed a ton after a poor start. He’s mentally strong, and I’m sure he’ll make a strong comeback,” Raj Kumar said.
With tough competition in the Indian squad and several players eagerly awaiting opportunities, Abhishek’s place in the team could be at stake if he doesn’t find form soon. The third T20I might be his last chance to prove his worth and secure his spot.
