Ravichandran Ashwin Advocates for Abhishek Sharma's Inclusion in T20 World Cup Final
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly recommended that the team management continue with young opener Abhishek Sharma for the highly anticipated final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 against the New Zealand national cricket team in Ahmedabad. This endorsement comes despite Ashwin's candid criticism of the left-hander's recent batting approach, emphasizing the need for better situational awareness.
Abhishek Sharma's Tournament Struggles Highlighted
The 25-year-old batter has faced significant challenges in finding his rhythm throughout the tournament. Apart from a solitary half-century, Abhishek has endured a difficult run, including three ducks. His troubles persisted in the semi-final against the England cricket team at the Wankhede Stadium, where he showed brief aggression before losing his wicket prematurely.
In that match, Abhishek started confidently by hitting two boundaries off Will Jacks in the second over. However, his attacking intent soon led to his dismissal when Jacks tossed up a delivery, tempting him into a big shot. The attempt misfired, with the ball flying off the lower part of the bat, allowing Phil Salt to complete a straightforward catch.
Notably, this marked the fourth instance in the tenth edition of the T20 World Cup that Abhishek has fallen to spin bowling. Earlier in the tournament, he was dismissed by Salman Ali Agha of Pakistan, Aryan Dutt of the Netherlands, and Akeal Hosein, highlighting a recurring vulnerability.
Ashwin's Support and Constructive Criticism
Despite these setbacks, Ashwin firmly believes that Abhishek should be backed for the title clash. Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, the veteran spinner argued that the youngster has demonstrated proven ability against quality bowling and should not be discarded due to a lean patch.
"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.
Ashwin also pointed out that Abhishek's dismissal in the semi-final resulted from poor decision-making rather than a lack of skill. "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.
Advice for Team Leadership and Pressure Management
The former spinner further advised India's leadership group, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, to ensure that Abhishek is not overwhelmed by excessive pressure ahead of the final. "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.
India's Path to the Final
India secured their place in the final with a thrilling seven-run victory over England, defending a formidable total of 253/7. The contest at the Wankhede Stadium turned into a run-fest, with both teams combining for nearly 500 runs in a high-scoring semi-final, showcasing the intense competition leading up to the championship match.
