Suresh Raina explains what makes Abhishek Sharma a dangerous batter in modern T20 cricket

Table of Contents

Former India international Suresh Raina has offered a detailed assessment of what makes Abhishek Sharma one of the most dangerous batters in modern T20 cricket, as the young opener continues to redefine India’s aggressive batting blueprint. With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, Abhishek’s rise has emerged as a major talking point within Indian cricket circles.

India’s left-handed opener has quickly become the embodiment of the high-tempo, fearless brand of cricket the team plans to carry into the upcoming World Cup. At just 25, Abhishek has cemented his place at the top of the order, providing rapid starts that put opposition bowlers under pressure from the very first over.

India are set to open their title defence against the USA on February 7 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, and Abhishek’s presence adds a fresh edge to the batting unit. His ability to dominate both pace and spin early in the innings aligns perfectly with India’s intent to dictate terms rather than react.

Speaking on JioHotstar, Raina highlighted the technical traits that separate Abhishek from many of his contemporaries. According to Raina, it is not just raw power but refined shot-making that makes the young batter so effective.

The southpaw pointed to Abhishek’s bat swing and his exceptional ability to clear the ropes against spinners without stepping out of the crease. He also praised the way Abhishek pierces the off-side with authority, especially through the covers, and how confidently he drives full-length deliveries. His use of footwork, combined with a strong base, allows him to hit straight down the ground with remarkable consistency – a skill that limits bowlers’ margin for error.

“I think his bat swing, the way he hits sixes off spinners while staying in his crease, the way he plays through the covers, and the drives he hits off full balls all stand out. He uses his feet really well and is a strong hitter straight down the ground,” Raina said on JioHotstar.

Also WATCH: Abhishek Sharma makes surprise appearance at Punjabi singer AP Dhillon’s Jaipur concert

Abhishek’s statistics back up the growing praise. After making his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in July 2024, the left-hander has enjoyed a meteoric rise. In just 33 T20I matches, he has amassed 1,115 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 188.02, underlining his value as a momentum-setter.

His record includes two centuries and six half-centuries, rare achievements in the shortest format. The year 2025 proved particularly significant, as Abhishek finished as the top-ranked T20 batter in the ICC rankings after scoring 859 runs, further establishing himself as a global force.

As India prepare for another World Cup campaign, Abhishek’s role at the top of the order could be decisive. His aggressive intent allows middle-order batters to play with greater freedom, knowing the platform has already been set. This approach also forces captains to alter field placements early, often disrupting bowling plans within the powerplay itself.

With experienced voices like Raina endorsing his skill set and numbers reflecting sustained impact, Abhishek appears well-positioned to be one of India’s key match-winners.

Also READ: Abhishek Sharma’s rumoured girlfriend – All you need to know about Laila Faisal