Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has advocated for T20 star Abhishek Sharma to be considered for the ODI World Cup squad. Pathan highlighted Abhishek’s explosive T20 performances, suggesting that his skills could be effectively utilized in the ODI format with strategic planning.
Acknowledging Abhishek’s recent success in T20 cricket, Pathan noted that the left-hander currently trails behind players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the ODI selection queue. However, Pathan stressed that Abhishek’s prowess in power-hitting makes him a strong contender deserving serious attention.
Expressing his views, Pathan envisioned Abhishek enhancing India’s Power-play in ODIs similar to T20 matches. He emphasized the potential impact of Abhishek’s inclusion on the team’s performance in the 50-over World Cup.
Abhishek Sharma has emerged as a formidable top-order batsman in India’s T20 lineup, showcasing fearless stroke play and a knack for clearing the field with ease. His recent remarkable innings of 84 runs off 35 balls against New Zealand in the first T20I match at Nagpur highlighted his talent. This stellar performance contributed to India’s convincing 48-run victory over the visitors.
Set to make his debut in a senior ICC tournament, Abhishek will open for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 starting on February 7. Despite not having played an ODI yet, the 25-year-old boasts a commendable record in List A cricket, having scored 2196 runs in 69 matches at a strike rate exceeding 100. Abhishek has also recorded four centuries, eight fifties, 69 sixes, and 266 boundaries in the format.
