Should Irfan Pathan Push for Abhishek Sharma's ODI World Cup Selection?
Synopsis
In a compelling call for consideration, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes T20I star Abhishek Sharma deserves a spot in the ODI World Cup team. With his outstanding performances in T20 cricket, Pathan argues that Abhishek's explosive batting could significantly benefit India's ODI strategy.
Key Takeaways
Irfan Pathan advocates for Abhishek Sharma 's selection in the ODI World Cup.
Abhishek's explosive T20 performances could enhance India's ODI strategy.
His recent innings of 84 runs off 35 balls demonstrates his potential.
He has a strong List A record, making him a compelling candidate.
Abhishek is set to debut in a major ICC tournament at the T20 World Cup 2026.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has encouraged the national selectors to consider T20I sensation Abhishek Sharma for the upcoming ODI World Cup. He believes that the left-handed batter's dynamic T20 performances could be effectively adapted to the ODI format if utilized wisely.
In response to Abhishek's recent feats in T20 cricket, Pathan pointed out that the player currently ranks behind Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the race for a permanent spot in the ODI squad.
Nonetheless, he stressed that Abhishek's explosive batting makes him a significant contender deserving of serious thought. Pathan suggests that introducing Abhishek could empower the Indian team to maximize their Power-play opportunities in ODIs, similar to how they do in T20Is.
“Abhishek Sharma should be in consideration for the 50-over World Cup. While players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are ahead of him right now, envision him elevating the Power-play in the same way as in T20s,” Pathan expressed in a post on X.
Abhishek has established himself as one of India's most formidable top-order batsmen in the T20 format, showcasing his fearless stroke play, capacity to clear the infield effortlessly, and increasing maturity in shot selection. He delivered an outstanding performance of 84 runs off just 35 balls on Wednesday against New Zealand in the first T20I match at Nagpur, contributing to India's impressive 48-run victory over the visitors.
This upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will mark Abhishek's debut in a senior ICC tournament, as he is set to open for the team on February 7.
Although the 25-year-old has yet to make his ODI debut for India, he boasts an impressive record in List A cricket. He has participated in 69 matches, accumulating 2,196 runs at a strike rate exceeding 100. Abhishek has achieved four centuries and eight fifties in this format, along with hitting 69 sixes and 266 boundaries.
Point of View
I believe that Abhishek Sharma's inclusion in the ODI World Cup squad warrants serious consideration. His explosive T20 performances prove he has the potential to adapt and thrive in the ODI format, making him a valuable asset to the team.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Irfan Pathan advocating for Abhishek Sharma?
Irfan Pathan believes Abhishek Sharma's explosive performances in T20 cricket can be effectively translated into ODI format, enhancing India's strategy.
What are Abhishek Sharma's recent accomplishments?
Abhishek Sharma recently scored 84 runs off 35 balls in a T20I match against New Zealand, showcasing his destructive batting abilities.
Is Abhishek Sharma part of the ODI setup?
Currently, Abhishek Sharma is not part of the ODI setup but is being considered for inclusion due to his T20 performances.
What is Abhishek Sharma's List A cricket record?
In List A cricket, Abhishek has played 69 matches, scoring 2,196 runs with a strike rate above 100, including four hundreds and eight fifties.
What upcoming tournament will Abhishek Sharma participate in?
Abhishek Sharma is set to open for India in the T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7.
