Abhishek Reflects on Yuvi's Support: 'You Will Play for India'

Synopsis

New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) Following his stellar performance in India's significant victory over England in the fifth T20I at Mumbai, Abhishek Sharma credits former cricketer Yuvraj Singh for instilling the belief to play for the national team.

Key Takeaways

Abhishek Sharma scored 135 runs off 54 balls, achieving a record in T20Is.
His all-round performance included two wickets and a catch.
Support and belief from Yuvraj Singh fueled Abhishek's ambition.
He emphasizes the importance of practicing with match intent.
Scoring a century in front of family made the achievement special.

New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) After emerging as the key player in India’s impressive 150-run triumph against England in the fifth T20I held in Mumbai, Abhishek Sharma revealed that the inspiration to represent the national team stemmed from former white-ball legend Yuvraj Singh, which motivated him continuously.

At the Wankhede Stadium, Abhishek showcased his prowess by scoring an astonishing 135 runs off just 54 balls, marking the highest score by an Indian batsman in men’s T20Is. His aggressive batting included seven fours and 13 sixes, achieving a strike rate of 228.57 as India set a formidable total of 247/9.

In addition to his batting, Abhishek contributed in the field by taking a catch and claiming two wickets with his left-arm spin, helping India dismiss England for a mere 97 runs, thus securing a 4-1 series victory. "As a player, self-doubt can creep in regarding your chance to represent your country. However, Yuvi Paaji (Yuvraj Singh) has always shown faith in me. He would say, ‘One day, you’ll represent India and win matches, and I’m preparing you for that.’ That assurance has been my driving force," Abhishek stated during an interview with Disney+ Hotstar.

Reflecting on his outstanding all-round display, Abhishek expressed that he sensed it would be his moment to excel. “I consistently visualize such innings, and today it finally materialized. The support from both the coach and captain has instilled a great deal of confidence in me. They’ve encouraged me to play my natural game, even during my struggles in earlier matches. The backing from your captain and coach is paramount, especially for a young player like me,” he elaborated.

Abhishek also discussed his aggressive mindset right from the start. "When I practice, I do so with a competitive mindset. During the (Syed) Mushtaq Ali Trophy with Punjab, I built the confidence that when I’m in my zone, I can clear the boundary consistently.

“Brian Lara once advised me, ‘If you can hit 100 sixes in practice but keep getting out in matches, it’s futile.’ That advice has stayed with me, and I always strive to play with the right intent. The three senior players—SKY, Hardik, and Axar bhai—all encouraged me to be patient, focus on executing proper cricketing shots, and ensure I completed my century.”

Abhishek concluded by expressing the joy of scoring a century in front of his family present in Mumbai. "This innings was incredibly special because my mom and sister were here. There’s nothing more fulfilling than performing in front of your family."