Headless Batting in Semi-Final: R Ashwin’s Brutal Verdict on Abhishek Sharma

Mumbai, 2 July 2026 — Ravichandran Ashwin has labelled Abhishek Sharma’s semi-final dismissal “headless batting” but insists the 25-year-old must open for India in Saturday’s T20 World Cup final against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, the former India off-spinner tore into the left-hander’s shot selection against England at the Wankhede, where Abhishek holed out to Phil Salt after spooning Will Jacks to long-off in the second over. The wild swing, minutes after back-to-back boundaries, continued a wretched tournament that has already featured three ducks and four spin-induced exits.

“He scored eight runs against Jacks, but he intended to score 30,” Ashwin said. “Sometimes you have to leave the ball. Sanju Samson is going so well—just take the single and get to the other end. You’ll get your tee time.”

Despite the blunt critique, Ashwin urged head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav to shield Abhishek from extra pressure ahead of the title clash. “He’s a damn good talent who relies on timing. If you burden him, he’ll try to hit the ball harder. Keep him in a good space and I will continue with him.”

Ashwin cited Abhishek’s recent dominance over New Zealand’s attack—Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry included—as proof of his match-winning potential. “He has that factor. One lean patch doesn’t erase what he did in that series.”

India booked their final berth with a seven-run thriller, defending 253 for 7 in a run-soaked evening that saw nearly 500 runs scored. Whether Abhishek can shrug off his semi-final brain-fade and repay Ashwin’s faith will shape India’s pursuit of a third T20 world title.

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