“I wouldn't be too fussed” - Ravi Ashwin confident of Abhishek Sharma’s performance against New Zealand

Former Indian spinner and analyst Ravi Ashwin has backed the under-performing Abhishek Sharma to come out well against New Zealand in the grand finale of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.

For the unversed, the left-handed opening batter managed to muster only 89 runs from seven innings in the ongoing mega event, with his scores reading 0, 0, 0, 15, 55, 10 and 9 at an average of 12.71.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated that he doesn’t want the Indian team management to axe the under-fire opening batter from the XI, but stated that it would be wise for them to instil sense into him and advise him on how to play according to the situation of the game.

"Abhishek Sharma has that factor. In the series against New Zealand, he was in top form. He has batted well against Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry in the past. So I wouldn't be too fussed about Abhishek. But I would like to have a conversation with him. I would tell him, 'Listen, there's a plan against you.' So don't try hard to hit the ball," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Speaking on Abhishek Sharma’s dismissal against England, the former cricketer noted that there was no need for the batter to go after Will Jacks after hitting him for two boundaries earlier in the over. 

"In the semi-final against England, I think it was headless batting from him. I am a big fan of his gameplay. He scored eight runs against Jacks, but he intended to score 30 runs against him. Sometimes, you have to leave the ball. Sanju Samson is going so well at the other end, so you just need to take the single and get to the other end. You will get your tee time," he added.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!