Abhishek Sharma entered the T20 World Cup 2026 with a reputation. The number one-ranked T20I batter in the world. Someone who could end the match in the powerplay itself. Five matches later, one of which he missed, Abhishek has scored just 15 runs.
The 25-year-old didn’t even score a run in the entire group stage. But that’s just how cricket can be. Exactly a month ago, on January 25, Abhishek dismantled New Zealand bowlers as India chased down 154 in 10 overs, and he remained unbeaten on 68 (20).
Opener change for IND vs ZIM match
In his next 6 innings, Abhishek has registered 4 ducks. That’s how quickly the night changes. From being the most dangerous batter in the world, he’s now a walking wicket. Of course, it can all change in one innings. But with the T20 World Cup semifinal qualification on the line, should India risk it?
Virender Sehwag doesn’t think. An attacking opener himself, the former Indian cricketer believes it’s time to rest Abhishek for his and the team’s good. Sanju Samson, who played a 22-run cameo against Namibia, should be given a chance for the must-win India vs Zimbabwe match.
“If I were there, I would have given Abhishek Sharma a break and tried Sanju Samson instead. This is the only match where you can try, because if India loses this game, then they are out. Since this is such an important match, India have to pick their best playing XI on the basis of form,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.
India falling short on execution
The 2007 T20 World Cup winner believes that captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir have been on point when it comes to tactics and selection. The issue has been execution. Apart from Abhishek, Tilak Varma‘s been out of form as well. That’s why India has been struggling.
“I think there could be changes when it comes to selection, but the tactics have not been bad. It’s only the execution that has been the problem. That aspect can be better, and they will try to improve on that. Neither Abhishek Sharma nor Tilak Varma is in good form, so they have to keep that in mind,” Sehwag added.
