Abhishek Sharma may be going through a difficult phase in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, but Ravi Shastri and Ricky Ponting have backed the Indian opener to retain his place for the semi-final against England cricket team on March 5.
Abhishek has struggled for consistency in the tournament, with his only significant score being a half-century against Zimbabwe national cricket team. He recorded three consecutive ducks against the United States national cricket team, Pakistan national cricket team and Netherlands national cricket team, before scoring 15 off 12 balls versus South Africa national cricket team. Overall, he has managed 80 runs from six matches at an average of 13.33 and a strike rate just above 131. In the most recent match, he scored 10 off 11 deliveries, while Sanju Samson played a match-winning knock to guide India home. Abhishek also dropped two catches in that game.
Despite the lean run, Shastri said the team management should assess Abhishek’s mental state before making any decision. He suggested that unless there are concerns about the batter’s mindset or confidence, there is no immediate need for change.
Ponting echoed that view, admitting he had expected Abhishek to be among the tournament’s leading run-scorers and a contender for Player of the Tournament. While acknowledging that those expectations have not been met, Ponting said he would continue to back the opener.
Shastri added that a change should only be considered if Ishan Kishan is promoted up the order, which could open the door for Rinku Singh to come into the side. However, he maintained that he would persist with Abhishek, noting his past success against England.
The last time Abhishek played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, he scored a rapid 135 against England. Shastri expressed hope that the venue could once again bring out the best in the left-hander.
India are set to take on England in the semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5.
