'He is trying to play across the wicket, that is getting him into trouble' - Irfan Pathan reflects on Abhishek Sharma's poor technique ahead of IND vs SA

Published - 22 Feb 2026, 12:01 IST | Updated - 22 Feb 2026, 12:03 IST

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has analysed the struggles of star opener Abhishek Sharma in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The southpaw has failed to score a single run in the tournament thus far, with three ducks in as many matches. Irfan believes that there is a problem in Abhishek's technique and mindset while facing the off-spinners that has created the trouble.

India are slated to face South Africa in their first Super Eights' match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22 and all eyes, including Irfan's, will be on how the left-handed attacking batter goes about his thing in this mouthwatering clash.

"Abhishek Sharma is getting out to off-spinners. Against Pakistan and the Netherlands, off-spinners got him. The problem lies in his shot selection. His bat comes down from a high angle, and he is not looking to hit straight. He is trying to play across the wicket. That is getting him into trouble," Irfan said via JioStar.

He moves his front foot away to create room, but bowlers are not giving him room. They are bowling wide, not close to him. These are not drivable balls. These are balls you either take a single on or, if you hold your shape, you can hit one-bounce fours. That is what Salman Ali Agha and Aryan Dutt bowled to him. South Africa will do the same.

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The cricketer-turned-commentator further delved deep into how the India batter is sticking to his technique and is also adamant about not doing any makeshift adjustments, which is further making matters worse.

His bat angle is coming across, which is natural to him. He does not need to change that. If he tries to change it now, it will be a mess. He has not scored runs. First things first, get a single, get off the mark. Expect the spinner to come in, get to the other end, and target the fast bowlers. When Markram comes on to bowl to him, he does not need to bludgeon from the first ball," Pathan added.

With the game against the Proteas taking place on Sunday, it will be interesting to notice how the 25-year-old fares in the all-important outing.