'If Buttler can feel pressure, then he certainly will' - Legendary batter makes bold remark on Abhishek Sharma ahead of IND vs WI clash

Published - 01 Mar 2026, 16:07 IST | Updated - 01 Mar 2026, 16:07 IST

Former South African great AB de Villiers believes that India’s talisman Abhishek Sharma will be under immense pressure against West Indies, a must-win encounter for the co-hosts in the T20 World Cup 2026. The Men in Blue are scheduled to face the Windies challenge at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on March 1.

Abhishek, World’s No.1 T20I batter entered the T20 World Cup 2026 with huge expectations all over, given his stellar form. But things are not the same in the ongoing multi-national event, as he has managed only 70 runs so far, including three consecutive ducks.

With the upcoming encounter being a virtual knockout, the pressure will be on him to deliver and justify the faith the team management has put on him.

Amid all this, the former Proteas’ skipper has stated that considering his poor form and the circumstances, Abhishek will be under pressure against the 2016 T20 World Cup champions.

"He's out of form but very dangerous. They'll need him against the West Indies. It's a pressure game, and for a guy out of form to play a pressure game is tough. Look at Jos Buttler, for instance, against New Zealand. You can see he's feeling a bit of pressure. He's one of the best T20 players ever, and if he can feel the pressure, Abhishek will certainly feel the pressure against the West Indies with the entire country on his back," he said while speaking on his YouTube channel.

"They'll want him to perform, knowing the standards he has set over the last few months. That can sometimes get very heavy on a player," he further added.

The batting maestro did not stop there. He had some pieces of advice for the struggling Indian opener. He noted that the young left-hander should slow things down, giving himself some time at the crease.

"My advice to him would be to just focus on what you are good at. That is to see the cricket ball, take a few deep breaths, and make sure you slow things down. When you feel like the bowlers are rushing you, send them back. Pretend like you are taking your guard again," said de Villiers.