‘He’ll be out of form’ – India coach fires huge ‘Abhishek Sharma’ warning to Josh Hazlewood

‘He’ll be out of form’ – India coach fires huge ‘Abhishek Sharma’ warning to Josh Hazlewood

Young Opener Abhishek Sharma Poised to Challenge Josh Hazlewood in T20I Series Against Australia

Former Team India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has expressed his confidence in young opener Abhishek Sharma’s ability to trouble Australia’s premier pacer Josh Hazlewood in the upcoming five-match T20I series. Nayar believes that Sharma, if in form, has the potential to shift the momentum in India’s favor.

Sharma’s Fearless Batting Style

Throughout the recent three-match ODI series, Hazlewood consistently troubled India’s top order with his bounce and pace on the Perth and Adelaide pitches. Despite finishing without a wicket in the second ODI, he maintained relentless pressure on the visiting team. Nayar, speaking on Star Sports, highlighted Sharma’s fearless batting style as a key factor that could unsettle top bowlers like Hazlewood.

“If Abhishek Sharma is in form, Hazlewood will be out of form. The way he bats, he is known to hit the first ball for a four or a six. If you instill fear in the powerplay, it continues throughout the innings,” Nayar explained. He further emphasized Sharma’s impact on the game, stating that if he bats for six overs, India can score between 60 to 80, easing pressure for his batting partner while increasing it for the opposition.

Sharma’s Challenge Against Hazlewood

Nayar acknowledged that facing an in-form Hazlewood in Australian conditions will be a significant challenge for Sharma. However, he believes that Sharma’s experience in the IPL and tours of South Africa will help him handle the pressure.

“It will be a big test for him, especially against Hazlewood, who is in good rhythm and extracting extra bounce. However, I feel that he has got enough experience by playing in the IPL and in South Africa,” Nayar stated during the discussion.

Upcoming T20I Series

The five-match T20I series between India and Australia is set to kick off in Canberra on Wednesday, October 29. Hazlewood will miss the final three games as he rejoins his state side for Sheffield Shield duties in preparation for the 2025–26 Ashes.

Sharma, coming off a stellar Asia Cup 2025 campaign where he was named Player of the Tournament for scoring 314 runs at a strike rate of 200, is set to feature in his first T20I series on Australian soil. Despite disappointing outings in the recent Australia A series, Sharma’s overall T20I record is impressive with 849 runs in 24 matches at a strike rate of 196.07.

The upcoming T20Is against Australia present Sharma with an opportunity to make a strong statement and establish himself as a key player in the Indian team. With Nayar’s backing and his own fearless mindset, Sharma will look to leave a mark in Australia and earn respect in challenging conditions.

Sharma’s Potential Impact on the Series

As the T20I series between India and Australia draws near, the spotlight is on young opener Abhishek Sharma and his potential to make a significant impact. With former Team India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar expressing confidence in Sharma’s ability to challenge Josh Hazlewood, the stage is set for an exciting battle between bat and ball.

Sharma’s fearless batting style has been a talking point, with Nayar highlighting his aggression as a key factor that could unsettle premier bowlers like Hazlewood. In a format where early momentum is crucial, Sharma’s ability to take on the bowlers from the outset could provide India with a valuable edge in the powerplay overs.

Despite the challenge of facing an in-form Hazlewood in Australian conditions, Sharma’s experience in high-pressure situations, including his time in the IPL and tours of South Africa, has prepared him for this moment. His recent success in the Asia Cup, where he dominated the opposition with his aggressive stroke play, serves as a testament to his ability to perform on the big stage.

The Battle Within the Series

With Hazlewood set to miss the final three matches of the series, Sharma will have the opportunity to showcase his skills against other Australian bowlers and further establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in international cricket. His impressive T20I record speaks volumes about his capabilities as a game-changer, and the upcoming series presents him with a platform to shine on the international stage.

As Sharma gears up to face the challenges that lie ahead, his partnership at the top of the order with fellow opener Rohit Sharma will be crucial for India’s success. The duo’s ability to provide a solid foundation while capitalizing on the field restrictions in the powerplay overs can set the tone for the rest of the innings and put pressure on the opposition.

Looking Ahead: Sharma’s Potential Legacy

As the T20I series unfolds, all eyes will be on Abhishek Sharma and his ability to make a mark against a formidable Australian side. With Nayar’s backing and a fearless mindset, Sharma has the potential to carve out a legacy for himself in Indian cricket, cementing his place as a key player in the team’s future endeavors.

Whether he succeeds in challenging Hazlewood or makes an impact in other matches of the series, Sharma’s journey in Australian conditions will be a test of his character and talent. With a blend of aggression, technique, and determination, he has the tools to succeed at the highest level and leave a lasting impression on the T20I series against Australia.

As fans eagerly anticipate the showdown between bat and ball, Abhishek Sharma’s presence looms large as a player to watch out for in the upcoming T20I series, poised to take on the challenges and opportunities that come his way.

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