With the ODI leg done and dusted, the focus now shifts to the five-match T20I series between India and Australia, which holds a few interesting subplots at the top of which is the battle between Abhishek Sharma and Josh Hazlewood.
In an interview on Star Sports, former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar supported the young Indian opener to dominate this battle and pressurize Australia from the outset. Nayar underscored that the powerplay overs will be India’s most critical portion, labeling Sharma as their best bet to be the aggressor in setting the tone early. His assessment leaned toward the intent and rhythm of Sharma and how rapidly his aggressive batting could turn matches around in the first six overs.
Also Read: Shreyas Iyer injury update: Indian batter moved out of ICU and recovering from injury
“If Abhishek Sharma is in form, Hazlewood will be out of form. The way he bats, he is known to hit the first ball for a four or a six. If you instill fear in the powerplay, it continues throughout the innings. That is Abhishek Sharma’s impact on the game. If he bats six overs, India will score between 60 to 80. It will ease the pressure for his batting partner, while it will increase for the opposition,” said Nayar.
Nayar also credited Sharma with his mentality, dubbing him “fearless and determined to make his mark in Australia.” He further added that playing well against a tough attack on home soil in Australia provides tremendous satisfaction and respect, something Sharma will be keen to gain.
“He has a fearless mindset and will want to make a name for himself in Australia. This is a good chance for him, as it is very satisfying to earn respect in Australia. From how much I know him, he would want to make a name for himself here.”
Also Read: India vs Australia, T20I Series: Date, Time, Venue, Live Streaming – All You Need To Know
Tactically, Nayar feels that if Sharma can overpower under field restrictions, it will give India an authoritative early advantage in the series. In the meantime, Hazlewood, who will play a maximum of the first two T20Is before returning to his Sheffield Shield obligations, will try to extract as much value as possible from his limited stint and counter Sharma’s aggression to turn the pendulum in Australia’s direction.
