T20 World Cup 2026: Team India is too much dependant on Abhishek Sharma?

Former India pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji has suggested that the current Indian T20 setup appears heavily dependent on Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. He observed that the left-handed opener brings a rare explosiveness in the powerplay, capable of shifting momentum within a few overs. According to Balaji, Abhishek’s aggressive approach often sets the tone for the rest of the batting unit, which makes his presence particularly crucial. While he acknowledged Ishan Kishan’s promising performances since making his international comeback against New Zealand, Balaji pointed out that Kishan is still in the process of re-establishing himself, having not played a substantial number of games in recent times.

Abhishek Sharma is India's go to player in the T20 World Cup 2026?

Balaji’s remarks came in the context of India’s opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against the USA. In that game, Abhishek was dismissed for a golden duck, putting immediate pressure on the batting lineup. His early departure triggered a middle-order wobble, leaving the team in a precarious position. It was then that skipper Suryakumar Yadav stepped up with a composed and match-defining innings to steady the ship. Thanks to his crucial knock, India managed to recover and secure a 29-run victory, launching their campaign on a winning note despite the early setback.

Abhishek Sharma’s dismissal against the USA came when he was caught in the deep on the off-side, attempting to take on the field despite the risk. The shot reflected his naturally aggressive mindset, but it also highlighted a growing tactical pattern from opposition teams. Lakshmipathy Balaji observed that bowlers are increasingly setting packed off-side fields specifically to counter the Punjab batter’s preferred scoring areas. According to him, rival teams have begun studying Abhishek closely and are executing well-defined plans to curb his attacking instincts.

Balaji suggested that this is the stage where greater game awareness becomes crucial. While aggression remains Abhishek’s biggest strength, the former India pacer believes that balancing intent with situational understanding will elevate his effectiveness. He emphasized the importance of respecting quality bowling spells and adapting to field placements rather than forcing strokes too early. By rotating strike and choosing the right moments to attack, Abhishek can avoid unnecessary risks and convert promising starts into substantial contributions for the team.

"The start he provides is important. Though Ishan Kishan is playing well, he has come back only recently. So Abhishek Sharma still doesn't have a set opening partner who can take over when he falls. The over-reliance on Abhishek Sharma is clear. India are struggling when he gets out early," former Indian pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji said. 

"Teams are starting to set fields square on the offside for him. So he has to bring some game awareness to the forefront. There is no doubt about his shot-making ability, but he should respect the bowlers and the conditions in the initial phase. So if he can learn that, it'll massively benefit India," he added.

India are set to resume their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign on Thursday, February 12, when they face a determined Namibia outfit under the leadership of Gerhard Erasmus. The Group A encounter will be staged at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, where a packed house is expected to create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. With the defending champions eager to build momentum, the match presents an opportunity to fine-tune combinations and maintain rhythm as the tournament progresses.

Namibia, known for their disciplined approach and fighting spirit, are unlikely to be taken lightly. India will be mindful of delivering a complete performance across all departments, particularly with the stakes steadily rising in the group stage. The contest also carries added significance as it marks India’s final outing before their much-anticipated showdown against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. That marquee clash looms large on the horizon, but for now, Suryakumar Yadav and his team will aim to stay focused on the immediate task at hand and ensure they head into the high-voltage encounter with confidence and winning momentum firmly on their side.