Abhishek Sharma Called ‘Rascal’ By Ex-Australia Wicketkeeper After T20 World Cup 2026

Abhishek Sharma [Source: AFP]

India batter Abhishek Sharma became a major topic of discussion during the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026. Notably, his form during most of the tournament remained inconsistent. 

In the matches leading up to the final, the left-handed batter scored only 89 runs in seven games. In addition, he registered three ducks during the group stage, which increased criticism from fans and experts.

Abhishek Sharma struggles during T20 world Cup

Before the tournament started, many experts predicted that Abhishek would finish as one of the top run scorers. However, the tournament began in a difficult way for him. He recorded three ducks in a row during the group stage. 

Moreover, he missed a group match against Namibia due to a stomach infection. As a result, his early performances created doubts about his place in the team.

Even though his start was disappointing, Abhishek Sharma managed to deliver in key matches for India. One important performance came against Zimbabwe. Notably, India needed to win that match to stay in the tournament after their disappointing loss to South Africa in the previous Super 8 game.

During that match, Abhishek Sharma played an aggressive innings and scored a half-century. His powerful batting helped India post a massive total of 256 runs. Consequently, the team secured a comfortable victory and stayed alive in the competition.

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Notably, the Punjab batter produced his best performance in the final of the tournament against New Zealand. He scored a rapid half-century in just 18 balls. His attacking approach helped India build another huge total. It is worth mentioning that it became India’s third 250-plus score of the tournament.

Meanwhile, India’s bowlers later restricted New Zealand to a low score. Therefore, India successfully defended their T20 World Cup title. Abhishek also contributed with the ball and took the final wicket of the match, which sealed the victory.

Brad Haddin praises Abhishek Sharma

Former Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin praised Abhishek for his fearless approach in big matches. Speaking on the Willow Talk Cricket Podcast, Haddin playfully described him as a “rascal” who performs well under pressure.

"I'm a huge fan of Abhishek, and there was a lot of talk about his position throughout the tournament. Got a few ducks in a row in the pool games, and all of a sudden, you think he is under pressure, but there are the guys you want in the big moments, because they are rascals and they walk into the fire. 

That is what Abhishek does, he puts pressure on the opposition, and the way that he went out in that final set up the game," the former wicketkeeper said on the Willow Talk Cricket Podcast. 

Abhishek Sharma continues to hold top position in T20 rankings

At the end of the tournament, Abhishek finished with 141 runs, including two half-centuries. Interestingly, despite the inconsistent run during T20 World Cup, Abhishek continues to hold the top position in the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings. 

Meanwhile, the 25-year-old cricketer will now prepare for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). In the tournament, he will represent Sunrisers Hyderabad and aim to continue his strong performances.

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