NEW DELHI: India opener Abhishek Sharma shared an interesting anecdote about his mentor Yuvraj Singh’s reaction to his T20I debut against Zimbabwe. Despite getting out for a duck in the first match, which India lost by 13 runs, Yuvraj Singh expressed his delight, believing that it was a “good start” for reasons known only to him.


However, Abhishek bounced back in spectacular fashion in the second T20I, showcasing his immense talent and potential.

The 23-year-old left-handed batsman took the Zimbabwe bowlers to the cleaners, smashing a scintillating maiden century off just 47 deliveries.

His explosive innings propelled India to a commanding 100-run victory, leveling the series at 1-1.


“I spoke to him yesterday (Saturday) also, and I don’t know why he was very happy when I got out on zero. He said that’s a good start but he must be very happy and proud just like my family,” Abhishek said in a video posted by BCCI.

Abhishek acknowledged the significant role Yuvraj played in his development, both on and off the cricket pitch. Yuvraj, who was instrumental in India’s victorious 2011 World Cup campaign, took Abhishek under his wing and helped him refine his cricketing abilities.

“It’s all because of him as well, the hard work he has put in (shaping) me. (For) two-three years, he has worked really hard not only on my cricket but off the field (life) as well.”


After playing a spectacular match-winning knock in second T2I, Abhishek called Yuvraj.

“Well done very proud, you deserve it. Many more (such innings) to come this is just the start,” Yuvraj said.

The Indian team benefited from the quick turnaround between the first two matches of the five-game series.

With no rest day scheduled, the visiting side had little opportunity to dwell on their initial defeat. This lack of reflection time played into India’s hands, allowing them to swiftly bounce back and even the series at 1-1.


“We lost yesterday but I felt, today is my day and I should take the match to the end, the positive was that we didn’t have much time to think about the next game,” he pointed out.

Abhishek and Ruturaj Gaikwad (77 not out off 47 ball) stiched a match-winning 137-run stand for the second wicket.

“I was in a flow, and just wanted to express myself. I spoke to Rutu as well, he said the same thing that ‘don’t think much about the balls and hit what you think you can’,” he said.

Abhishek also lauded skipper Shubman Gill for lending him his bat.

“Special thanks to Shubman who timely gave me his bat, this was a much-needed innings for me and the team.

“This has been going on from U-14 times. Whenever I play with his bat I have done well, today also, the same happened.

“I played with his bat only, which I got after a lot of difficulty, he doesn’t give it easily. That is like my last option when I feel I have to play with his bat for a comeback,” he quipped.