(Credit- Abhishek Sharma X)
Abhishek Sharma is enjoying a stellar season in IPL 2024, making significant contributions with his batting and bowling skills for the Sunrisers Hyderabad team.
Following a pivotal bowling performance against the Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2, Abhishek Sharma disclosed that his mentor, Yuvraj Singh, has often remarked that Abhishek is a superior bowler than himself. Hailing from Punjab, this rising star has been pivotal in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s triumphs throughout the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
Looking ahead to the championship clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday, May 26, Abhishek shared that he diligently refined his bowling abilities during his formative years under the guidance of his father, who was also a left-arm spinner.
“I think my dad will be very happy because he was a left arm spinner, he has been working very hard on my bowling. Somehow I knew that if I kept working on my bowling, I can do something for my team. From junior cricket, I have been bowling a lot and taking wickets and I was waiting for this opportunity,” Abhishek said in a video on IPL website.
“It did not come that easily as I had to really show my captain and coaches in the practice, because they had not seen much,” he added.
On the spin-friendly terrain of Chepauk during Qualifier 2, Abhishek showcased his bowling prowess by delivering an outstanding spell. He claimed crucial wickets, including those of Rajasthan’s skipper, Sanju Samson, and seasoned finisher Shimron Hetmyer, which significantly aided Sunrisers in restricting the inaugural champions to 139/7 while chasing a formidable target of 176 runs. With an impressive tally of 482 runs in 15 matches already under his belt, Abhishek’s recent bowling display poses a formidable challenge for the national selectors, potentially warranting his inclusion in the Indian team in the near future.
Expressing his sentiments, Abhishek expressed hope that the legendary Yuvraj Singh, renowned for his match-winning all-round abilities, would take pride in his contribution with the ball.
“Whenever I have had conversations about bowling with Yuvi paji (Yuvraj Singh), he has always said that I can become a better bowler than him. I always had that in my mind, I think he will be happy as well that I contributed with my bowling,” Abhishek said.
