India’s top batsman and leading T20I player, Abhishek Sharma, is confident that seasoned players Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill will shine in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Despite facing a rough patch in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa, Abhishek believes the duo has what it takes to turn the game around when it counts.
So far in the series, both Suryakumar and Gill have struggled with their batting. Gill’s score of 28 during India’s seven-wicket victory in Dharamsala on Sunday is the highest from either player in the first three matches. However, Abhishek is unfazed by these performances, especially with the World Cup looming just two months away.
“I have complete faith that these two are going to be match-winners in the World Cup and other games too,” Abhishek remarked, following India’s lead in the series. “Having played alongside Shubman for a long time, I know his capabilities and how he performs, no matter the situation.”
In the third T20I, Abhishek and Gill provided a solid start for India while chasing a target of 118. The pair put together 60 runs in just 5.2 overs, with Abhishek scoring a speedy 35 runs off 18 balls and Gill contributing 28 runs from 28 balls, guiding India to victory in 15.5 overs.
The Indian bowlers were instrumental in securing this win, as they bowled first to restrict South Africa to a mere 117 runs. Arshdeep Singh took 2 wickets for just 13 runs, while Harshit Rana and Hardik Pandya also made significant contributions with the ball.
Suryakumar, who managed only 12 runs during the chase, was questioned about his recent form but firmly stated that he is not worried. “I’ve been hitting the ball well in practice,” he said after the match. “I’m confident that runs will come when it matters. I’m just working hard to get back on track.”
Now, India is focused on the upcoming fourth T20I match, which will take place in Lucknow on Wednesday.
