India’s young opener, Abhishek Sharma, received a heartwarming endorsement from former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh following his spectacular century in the second T20I against Zimbabwe. This special knock marked a remarkable turnaround for Sharma, who endured a forgettable debut with a four-ball duck.
A Video Call Filled with Pride and Gratitude
Abhishek Sharma’s journey in T20I cricket began on a disappointing note. In his first outing for India, he was dismissed for a mere four runs off four deliveries. However, the 23-year-old southpaw displayed immense resilience, bouncing back in emphatic fashion during the second T20I. He unleashed an aggressive batting display, reaching his maiden T20I century in just 47 balls. His knock was a masterclass in power-hitting, studded with seven boundaries and a staggering eight sixes.
Following the match, the BCCI shared a heartwarming video on social media platforms. The clip featured Abhishek Sharma engaged in a video call with Yuvraj Singh, a former teammate who has played a significant role in mentoring the young cricketer. Yuvraj expressed immense pride in Abhishek Sharma’s accomplishment, stating, “I’m very proud. Well done. You deserve it. Many more to come. This is just the start.”
Abhishek Sharma Acknowledges Yuvraj’s Guidance
Abhishek Sharma, overwhelmed with gratitude, expressed his appreciation for Yuvraj’s unwavering support and guidance. He highlighted the all-rounder’s dedication to his development, both on and off the field, over the past two to three years. Abhishek Sharma acknowledged, “It is all because of him as well. The hard work he has put on me. Two, three years he’s been working really hard on me and everything. I wouldn’t say just on my cricket, even off the field as well. So, it’s a big moment.”
Abhishek Sharma also revealed a unique superstition that played a part in his success. He disclosed that he used teammate Shubman Gill’s bat for the match, claiming it to be his “last option” whenever he needs a comeback after a slump. Sharma humorously noted, “I played with his bat only, which I found very difficult. He didn’t even give it to me easily. This has been going on since I was under 14. Whenever I have played from his bat, it’s good. Even today, I want to tell everyone that I played with his bat only, which I found very difficult. He doesn’t even give it easily. That is like my last option when I feel that I have to play with his bat for the comeback.” He expressed his gratitude to Gill for lending him the lucky bat at the crucial moment.
“So, special thanks to Shubman, who gave me his bat and gave it on time. I think this was a much-needed inning for me and the team as well. That is like my last option when I feel that I have to play with his bat for the comeback. When we lost the match yesterday, I thought that today is my day, so I’ll take it till the end,” he added.
Abhishek Sharma discussed his approach to the game, emphasising the importance of seizing opportunities. “The positive was that we didn’t have much time to think about the next game because it was like on the next day. I felt that as soon as I thought that I could go for this bowler, I tried my best in that over. I was in a flow, so I just wanted to go there and express myself after I spoke to Rutu as well. He was also saying that whatever comes to your arc, you have to hit it, so don’t think much about the balls,” Abhishek Sharma explained.
With the series levelled at 1-1, India will lock horns with Zimbabwe in the deciding third T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday. The focus will undoubtedly be on Sharma, who will be aiming to build upon his impressive performance and potentially guide India to a series victory.
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