India's dynamic young opener, Abhishek Sharma, has expressed that representing the nation in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup would be a dream come true, following a spectacular individual performance in the recently concluded T20I series against Australia.
A Dream Series Down Under
The five-match T20I series concluded with India winning 2-1 after the final match in Brisbane was abandoned. The 25-year-old southpaw was the undisputed star for the visitors, amassing 163 runs across 5 matches, a performance that earned him the prestigious Player of the Series award.
Sharma revealed his excitement about touring Australia, citing the batting-friendly conditions as a major attraction. "I've been waiting for this tournament. When I got to know we're going to Australia for T20Is, I was very excited. I have seen throughout my career that Australia is very batting friendly," he stated in a post-match interview. He did, however, add a note of self-criticism, feeling the team could have posted better totals on certain occasions.
World Cup Aspirations and a New Record
With the next ICC T20 World Cup just three months away, Sharma's focus is firmly set on the global tournament. "It's one of the biggest tournaments. It's my dream come true moment if I'll be playing the World Cup. As a kid I've always dreamt about this – winning the World Cup. Will make sure I'm ready for that tournament," the Sunrisers Hyderabad batter affirmed, highlighting his childhood ambition.
His stellar form was further cemented by a remarkable personal milestone during the 5th T20I at the Gabba. Opening the innings, Sharma became the fastest man to reach 1000 T20I runs, achieving the feat in just his 29th innings since making his international debut in July 2024. He reached the landmark during his knock of 11 runs off just 7 deliveries.
Praise for a World-Class Opponent
Despite his own success, Sharma was generous in praising Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood, who missed the last three T20Is to prepare for the Ashes. Acknowledging the bowler's quality, Sharma said, "The way he (Hazlewood) was bowling, it was beneficial for any team. I've said before that I always enjoy the battle between batters and bowlers. He's a world-class bowler."
He emphasized the importance of facing such high-caliber bowling for his development. "If you want to play good cricket and do well in the future, you have to face world-class bowlers. I was practicing for these kind of bowlers only because that's how you're going to do well for your team," Sharma added, showcasing his mature outlook towards the game.
This successful tour has firmly established Abhishek Sharma as a key contender for a top-order spot as the Indian team begins its final preparations for the marquee T20 World Cup event next year.
