Spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin made a huge statement on Team India star Abhishek Sharma ahead of the Super 8 T20 World Cup 2026 match against South Africa. Abhishek has not been at his best in the tournament so far.
In fact, the left-hander is yet to open his account, scoring three back-to-back ducks in as many outings. Ashwin reckoned that it was surprising and unbelievable, given his form heading into the tournament.
While there have been question marks following his poor display, Ashwin reflected that it has been handled well by skipper Suryakumar Yadav. He also added that Abhishek must give himself some time against South Africa and look to get back among the runs.
“Abhishek Sharma is a player who has come in with some form but is yet to get off the mark. That is quite surprising and audacious. In many ways something that is not believable. He has been the player to watch out for in the fraternity and there have been some questions raised. There are many talented players in India and there is one sitting on the bench and there have been question marks. But Surya has handled it well. Abhishek can use this game to take some time and come back to form,” he said on his YouTube channel.
The match is set to be played on Sunday, February 22, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ashwin highlighted that South Africa have chased multiple times at this venue and won games. However, he opined that batting first could be the way to go forward.
Further, he also highlighted that having to chase a solid total on a wicket that is not completely placid, with the possibility of dew not coming into play, could be a cause of concern for the Men in Blue.
“Going by what has happened recently, India’s biggest pitfall could be having to chase a good score on pitches that are not absolutely placid and with no dew coming in later on. They have got an X factor bowling line-up, which again stands out.”
So far in the tournament, India have won all their games batting first. They have not been tested in a run chase. It will be interesting to see how they perform if they have to chase against South Africa.
Ravichandran Ashwin deems India favorites
Ravichandran Ashwin reckoned that India will be favorites heading into the T20 World Cup 2026 clash against South Africa. However, he gave them a subtle warning as well, stating that the Men in Blue would be aware of the fact that the Proteas have firepower.
“India are favorites heading into this game. But they will also be a bit jittery knowing that South Africa have got some firepower. On their day, in this format, they can turn the heat on,” he said.
The two teams have met seven times in T20 World Cups so far. India have a dominating record, having won five times, whereas South Africa have just two wins. The hosts will be keen to maintain their record.
Edited by Rishab Vm