Former India opener Virender Sehwag hailed Abhishek Sharma’s fearless batting after the youngster dismantled Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi during India’s dominant Asia Cup 2025 win.
Abhishek’s Explosive Start
Walking out with intent, Abhishek wasted no time in taking the attack to Shaheen Afridi. He cracked a boundary off the very first over and followed it with a towering six that immediately put Pakistan on the back foot. In Shaheen’s next over, Abhishek stamped his authority with another six and four, leaving the left-arm pacer rattled.
The southpaw’s cameo ended on 31 off just 13 balls, studded with four fours and two sixes, before he fell to Saim Ayub while attempting another big shot. His fiery knock gave India the perfect launchpad to dominate the match.
Sehwag’s Admiration
Impressed by the fearless display, Sehwag praised Abhishek’s ability to score at a strike rate of over 200 against the new ball — a rare quality among modern batters.
“You rarely get to see such talent. He has a career strike rate of 193, and today he batted above 200 against the new ball. Usually, players go after the old ball, but Abhishek attacks right from the start,” Sehwag said on Sony Sports.
Instilling Fear in Bowlers
Sehwag, who himself had a reputation for taking apart Pakistan’s bowling in his career, pointed out how Abhishek has already started creating doubt in the minds of opposition bowlers.
“It’s not easy to hit fast bowlers with the new ball, but Abhishek does it with ease. When he walks in, bowlers are unsure where to bowl to him. I genuinely enjoy watching him bat,” Sehwag remarked.
India’s Strong Position
With back-to-back wins, India have virtually sealed their spot in the Super Fours of the Asia Cup. The team will now face Oman in their last group-stage clash on Friday, aiming to maintain their unbeaten run.
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