Abhishek Sharma has got everyone’s attention with his destructive batting in the fifth T20I against England. However, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh thinks that the youngster has much more to offer than just this single explosive batting inning. His record-breaking innings were enough to prove his ability but his bowling might add another dimension to his game.
A Match No One Can Forget
Abhishek Sharma stood on the Wankhede ground and gave a never-to-be-forgotten performance. He smashed 54-ball 135 and broke more than one record. His innings boasted seven fours and a record-breaking 35 sixes. It was an outstanding performance, so he became the highest individual scorer for India in T20Is.
Alongside his explosive batting, he contributed with the ball. He bowled just one over but took two wickets. This all-round contribution strengthened India’s dominant 150-run victory against England. His ability to perform under pressure highlights his growing maturity in international cricket.
Harbhajan Singh’s Advice: Focus on Bowling Development
Harbhajan Singh, who led Abhishek in Ranji Trophy, believes that he needs to work on his bowling. Harbhajan feels that Abhishek has all the goodies of a great leg spinner. Even though he is naturally good with the bowl, currently, he focuses more on his batting.
I would like to see him bowl more,” Harbhajan said on his YouTube channel. “His seam position is very good, but he doesn’t work as hard on bowling. Even today, whenever I meet him, I tell him about his bowling. Since batting is his first love, he will definitely work on that. But if he improves his bowling, he can be an excellent leg-spinner.
His advice will speak to an essential element of the modern game: all-rounders bring a level of balance that can prove impossible to resist; Abhishek has those qualities and skills as well, if he fine-tunes his bowling, then one can predict more from Team India.
Abhishek Sharma has made a name for himself in limited-overs cricket. However, Harbhajan believes that he has the potential to succeed in Test cricket as well. Many aggressive players, like Virender Sehwag, Viv Richards, and Travis Head, have dominated in longer formats.
On his day, he takes the game away,” Harbhajan added. “Travis Head does it, Virender Sehwag used to do it, Viv Richards used to do it. These players move the game forward. His Test chance will come. A Sehwag-style player in Test cricket can change the game. Abhishek Sharma can be that player.
Although his first-class record shows an average of 30.60 in 24 matches, he has time to improve. With the right guidance and patience, he could transition into a dominant Test batter. His natural stroke-making ability, combined with his aggressive intent, makes him an exciting prospect.
The Need for Versatility in Modern Cricket
Cricket has evolved, and players need to have multiple skills to stay relevant. Abhishek Sharma has already proven himself as an explosive batter. However, adding reliable bowling to his arsenal could enhance his value.
Modern-day teams look for players who can contribute in various areas. Teams like Ben Stokes and Hardik Pandya, and Glenn Maxwell are the examples. More and more chances are given for batsmen to bowl too, providing a balance in the teams. Work on his bowling, and he might well tread the same path as Abhishek.
Additionally, his fielding skill further supports his argument as a complete cricketer. He significantly contributes to the field with athleticism and quick reflexes. His all-round skills can give India more flexibility in selecting the squad.
Abhishek Sharma’s Future
Abhishek Sharma has already done enough to be a world-class cricketer. He is a very fearless batsman, aggressive in mindset, and gifted. Still, the journey is only at the starting stage.
He needs to keep improving his bowling to reach greater heights. If he puts more effort into his leg-spin, he can become a match-winning all-rounder. His performances in domestic and international cricket will determine his long-term impact.
With the type of mentorship he has received from Harbhajan Singh, he will indeed thrive. If only he can reconcile both aspects of his game, he may well be one of the most valuable cricketers to emerge from India. Explosive batting already makes him the crowd darling, but untapped bowling ability could make him unstoppable.
Abhishek Sharma has the potential to dominate world cricket. His batting heroics have earned him recognition, but his future lies in becoming a complete player. If he hones his bowling skills, he could transform into an elite all-rounder.
Indian cricket always needs players who have multiple skills in their hands. Abhishek Sharma can easily join that elite category with proper hard work and determination. He can certainly make his name shine among the greats. The journey of Abhishek promises excitement, and fans eagerly wait for his next big performance.
