Over the last few years, the Indian cricketer who has undergone a radical transformation is undoubtedly Abhishek Sharma. The Punjabi player has always been a good cricketer, showing glimpses of immense potential. But that happens with many players; not everyone can turn that seed of potential into a tree of success.
Abhishek believes Sunrisers Hyderabad has played a huge role in his rise. Currently the world’s number one T20 batsman, Abhishek proves why he is on top every day. The T20 World Cup didn’t go well for him, except for the final where the cricket world saw his fierce form. In IPL 19, however, he is seen in his full glory. The latest example is his unbeaten 135 off 68 balls against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday night. After this, even a seasoned Test cricketer like Cheteshwar Pujara remarked, “Watching Abhishek, it seems scoring a century is so easy.”
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Abhishek said, “Actually, our coach Daniel Vettori and captain Pat Cummins have created such a dressing room atmosphere that we can play cricket freely. A cricketer always wants to showcase his talent. But to express that, he also needs the captain’s help and support. I would say 2024 was a game-changer for me. Because the Sunrisers management wanted the young players to express themselves and play their game freely. Punjabi cricketers love freedom, and Hyderabad has given me that.”
On Tuesday night, Abhishek’s unbeaten 135 off 68 balls against Delhi Capitals led even a seasoned Test cricketer like Cheteshwar Pujara to say, “Watching Abhishek, it seems scoring a century is so easy.”
After scoring a century against Delhi, Abhishek specially thanked the ‘Orange Army’. He also thanked his father, Rajkumar Sharma, for being present at the ground. He said, “I would say the camera should focus on my father’s face. He always tries to sit near the sightscreen. And whenever I look, he is ready with some advice.” The Sunrisers opener revealed that the Hyderabad pitch against Delhi was not a batting paradise. “We planned to use the powerplay as much as possible. But we saw the pitch was quite slow, so we had to replan. The Hyderabad ground is always special to me. Scoring runs here feels great.”
Pujara’s praise will surely give Abhishek the same satisfaction. The country’s unforgettable Test warrior said on the broadcast, “Abhishek played brilliantly. Watching him play, it seems so easy to score a century. Abhishek’s runs are very important for Sunrisers Hyderabad because they often win matches for them. As a talent, Abhishek has always been special. When he plays his game, you understand his class. I would say very few batsmen have the talent and class of Abhishek Sharma.”
What should bowlers do when a batsman like Abhishek goes into destructive mode? According to former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh, the only way is to tighten the line and length.
But what should bowlers do when a batsman like Abhishek goes into destructive mode? According to former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh, the only way is to tighten the line and length. He said, “Indian bowlers have no option but to improve themselves. If they don’t raise their standards, they will be punished. T20 cricket doesn’t spare anyone. Batsmen are always trying to add new shots to their arsenal. Bowlers also need to think of something new, do something new.”
