‘The problem lies in his shot selection’: Irfan Pathan Analyzes Abhishek Sharma’s Technique
NEW DELHI: As the next generation of Indian cricketers transitions from domestic success to the international stage, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has weighed in on the technical nuances required for success. Pathan has specifically pinpointed the adjustments promising opener Abhishek Sharma must make to maintain consistency against high-quality spin bowling.
Following a breakout IPL 2024 season where Sharma amassed runs at a blistering strike rate, expectations have been high. However, the transition to international cricket often exposes minor technical chinks. Pathan believes the root cause of recent dismissals lies in the opener’s shot selection and approach rather than a fundamental flaw in his natural technique.
The Off-Spin Conundrum
Speaking on his analysis for the broadcaster, Pathan highlighted a specific pattern in Sharma’s dismissals against off-spinners. He noted that the left-hander sometimes attempts to dominate too early without gauging the pace of the wicket.
“The problem lies in his shot selection,” Pathan observed. “His bat comes down from a high angle, and he is not looking to hit straight. He is trying to play across the wicket. That is getting him into trouble. He moves his front foot away to create room, but when bowlers do not give him room, these are not drivable balls.”
Abhishek Sharma: IPL 2024 Performance
Despite recent critiques, Sharma’s aggressive approach has been a statistical marvel in the T20 format. His ability to score quickly remains his primary asset.
| Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | High Score | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | 484 | 204.22 | 75* | 3 |
Strategic Adjustments: Playing in the ‘V’
Pathan warned against drastic changes to Sharma’s action, urging the youngster to trust the natural game that brought him success in the Indian Premier League. The advice focused on game management rather than a complete overhaul.
“His bat angle is coming across, which is natural to him. He does not need to change that. If he tries to change it now, it will be a mess,” Pathan explained. He suggested a more calculated start to the innings:
- Respect the Good Balls: “First things first, get a single, get off the mark.”
- Target Selection: “Expect the spinner to come in, get to the other end, and target the fast bowlers.”
- Patience: “He does not need to bludgeon from the first ball.”
The Road Ahead
As India looks to solidify its top-order options for future ICC tournaments, the development of aggressive openers like Abhishek Sharma remains a priority. Pathan’s analysis underscores the delicate balance young players must maintain between their natural aggression and the tactical maturity required at the highest level.
For more detailed cricket statistics and player profiles, visit ESPN Cricinfo or the official ICC website.