Abhishek Sharma has scored 89 runs in 7 games in this T20 World Cup 2026.
Former India cricketer R. Ashwin criticized opener Abhishek Sharma for his ‘headless batting’ in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, especially in the recent semifinal between India and England that was played in Mumbai on March 5.
The 25-year-old has had a poor tournament, scoring only one fifty and being dismissed for ducks three times. In the semi-final against England at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, Abhishek hit two boundaries against Will Jacks in the second over, but a rush of blood caused him to lose his wicket once more.
This was the fourth time Abhishek lost his wicket to a spinner in this T20 World Cup. Previously, he was dismissed by Salman Ali Agha of Pakistan, Aryan Dutt of the Netherlands, and Akeal Hosein of the West Indies.
“Abhishek Sharma has that factor. In the series against New Zealand, he was in top form. He has batted well against Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry in the past. So, I wouldn't be too fussed about Abhishek. But I would like to have a conversation with him. I would tell him, ‘Listen, there’s a plan against you. ' So don't try hard to hit the ball,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’.
“In the semi-final against England, I think it was headless batting from him. I am a big fan of his gameplay. He scored eight runs against Jacks, but he intended to score 30 runs against him. Sometimes, you have to leave the ball. Sanju Samson is going so well at the other end, so you just need to take the single and get to the other end. You will get your tee time,” he added.
Ashwin further questioned what sort of advice Abhishek was getting from head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav. Furthermore, Ashwin stated that despite everything, he will continue with Abhishek when India will play New Zealand in the final in Ahmedabad on March 8.
“Abhishek is a damn good talent, but I just want to know what sort of conversations are being had with him. Is he coming under too much pressure? If you give him more pressure, then he will look to hit the ball harder. He is a fluent player who relies on timing. You have to keep him in good space, and I will continue with him,” said Ashwin.
Abhishek Sharma has conjured 89 runs in 7 games, with a best of 55, at a strike rate of 130.88 with three ducks.