Abhishek Sharma has scored three ducks in three games in T20 WC thus far.
Mohammad Kaif, a former Indian cricketer, has lamented the absence of senior cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, saying that young batter Abhishek Sharma would have benefited from their presence in his time of struggle.
Abhishek, 25, is yet to score a run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, as he has scored three ducks in the three games he has played so far. After losing his wicket to Ali Khan against the USA, Abhishek has been dismissed by an off-spinner against Pakistan and the Netherlands.
Ahead of India’s Super Eights game against South Africa in Ahmedabad, Mohammad Kaif said that Virat and Rohit would have provided tips to Abhishek if they were a part of the setup, and this would have helped him get out of the rut instantly.
“Looking at Abhishek's current form, where he has scored three ducks, he is yet to open his mark. At this time, you feel the absence of players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. When Virat was in the team, he used to talk to Shubman Gill about batting. We have seen the visuals of younger players speaking to Rohit and Virat,” said Kaif on his YouTube channel.
“When such players are there in the team, junior players benefit a lot. Looking at Abhishek's mental state, he would have benefited from having players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma there. Virat would himself tell you about the foot movement and the importance of rotating the strike. It's easier to say, "Remove these two; we have found the replacement, but you haven't,” he added.
Kaif also stated that it is during these times that you realize the value of having senior players around. He claimed that the juniors looked up to Rohit and Virat, and the two were always available to offer their knowledge and experiences.
“I am telling you, the current phase of Abhishek—he would have benefited from the guidance of Virat and Rohit. Senior players in these situations are very helpful,” said Kaif.
Kaif further stated that he is convinced that both Suryakumar and head coach Gautam Gambhir would have discussed with Abhishek about how to use the feet against spinners during the powerplay.
“Abhishek needs to fine-tune. You cannot play at your own pace; you need to show some patience,” said Kaif.
Coming to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the duo announced their T20I retirement after India won the T20 World Cup 2024. They have also retired from Test cricket and only play ODIs for India, with an eye on the 2027 ICC World Cup.