Will Sharma Prove Amir Wrong on Sunday?
News Desk
Lahore: Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has delivered a candid assessment of Indian opener Abhishek Sharma ahead of the highly anticipated India–Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday.
Speaking during a television programme, Amir questioned Sharma’s technique and consistency, describing him as an aggressive hitter rather than a technically complete batter.
“From what I’ve seen, if I’m being completely honest, he looks like a slogger to me,” Amir said. “He goes hard at almost every ball. If it comes off, it comes off — but more often than not, the risk of failure is higher.”
Amir suggested that the left-handed opener’s performances tend to fluctuate, often producing one substantial innings amid several low scores. He expressed concern that Sharma’s approach appears to rely heavily on power-hitting instead of sound technical fundamentals.
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At the same time, Amir acknowledged the danger Sharma presents when in rhythm, noting that he is capable of dismantling even strong bowling attacks on his day. However, he added that the Indian batter appears vulnerable against quality variations, particularly slower deliveries and subtle swing.
The former pacer maintained that he would consider Sharma a complete batter only when he consistently handles movement and displays stronger technical control.
Despite the criticism, Sharma’s record in T20 Internationals remains impressive. The opener has scored 1,297 runs in 39 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 194.95, registering two centuries and eight half-centuries.
Against Pakistan, he has accumulated 110 runs in three appearances at a strike rate close to 190, including one fifty.
However, Sharma’s impact in the ongoing tournament has so far been limited. He was dismissed for a first-ball duck against the USA and missed the Namibia fixture due to illness, raising uncertainty over his availability for the much-anticipated encounter with Pakistan.
