Ponting’s Early Faith in Abhishek Sharma’s Talent
Renowned former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has long been a proponent of the cricketing prowess of Indian batsman Abhishek Sharma. According to Ponting, Abhishek is one of the most promising talents in the modern cricket scene and could emerge as the leading run-scorer and possibly the Player of the Tournament at the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Reflecting on his time with him at the Delhi Capitals during the 2018 IPL season, Ponting revealed how he fervently advocated for the franchise to retain Abhishek, who was a standout even as a 17-year-old debutant. “I pleaded with the Delhi Capitals not to let go of him, foreseeing his potential to become a cricketing superstar,” Ponting stated in an interview on the ICC Review.
The Path from IPL to International Impact
Despite Ponting’s appeals, Abhishek Sharma was traded to Sunrisers Hyderabad before the 2019 IPL season. Since then, he has demonstrated his substantial promise by accumulating 1753 runs over 71 innings for the Sunrisers, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 162.16.
His capabilities have only soared since stepping onto the international stage. With his T20I debut in July 2024, Abhishek has registered 1297 runs across 37 innings. His exceptional strike rate of 194.74 and an average of 37.05, including two blitzing centuries and eight fifties, underscores his explosive potential. Notably, his recent 14-ball fifty against New Zealand ranks as India’s second-fastest in T20I history.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
As India prepares to defend its title in the T20 World Cup, starting their journey against the USA in Mumbai on February 7, Abhishek is pegged by Ponting as a key player who could significantly bolster India’s campaign. “He can be the ace in India’s lineup, making them a formidable force,” Ponting asserted.
Ponting’s eye for talent and his earlier confidence in Abhishek’s abilities as an emerging cricketing icon are now aligning, with Abhishek set to grace his first ICC tournament. The world will be closely watching whether Ponting’s vision materializes into reality during this prestigious global event.
For his part, Abhishek’s evolution from a promising IPL entrant to a mature international player has been noteworthy. His development showcases the dynamic growth pathways available to young talent within Indian cricket, contributing to a hopeful narrative for the future of the sport in the country.
