Raina and Pujara Praise Abhishek Sharma Ahead of T20I Series

As the Indian cricket team gears up for the T20I series against New Zealand, former players Suresh Raina and Cheteshwar Pujara have praised Abhishek Sharma's batting skills. Raina highlighted Sharma's impressive shot-making ability, while Pujara noted his versatility on both sides of the wicket. Additionally, Washington Sundar has been ruled out due to injury, with Ravi Bishnoi stepping in as his replacement. Shreyas Iyer has also been added to the squad for the first three matches. This series is crucial for India's preparation for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 19:32 IST

Raina and Pujara Praise Abhishek Sharma's Batting Skills

Former Indian cricket stars Suresh Raina and Cheteshwar Pujara have expressed admiration for Abhishek Sharma's batting prowess as the Indian team prepares for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, commencing on January 21.

During an episode of the JioHotstar show 'T20 Titans', Raina highlighted Sharma's impressive shot selection, stating, "His bat swing is remarkable, especially how he hits sixes off spinners while remaining in his crease. His cover drives and full-ball hits are particularly impressive. He effectively uses his footwork and is a powerful hitter straight down the ground."

Pujara emphasized Sharma's adaptability, noting that he excels on both the leg and off sides. "He is a truly versatile player. Unlike many top-order batsmen who favor the leg side, Abhishek performs equally well on the off side, showing intent from the very first ball, aiming for boundaries. He has a keen sense for length and a wide array of shots," Pujara remarked.

Abhishek Sharma is poised to play a significant role in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, which serves as vital preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled for February-March. The 25-year-old made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in July 2024 and has since accumulated 1,115 runs in 33 matches, boasting an impressive strike rate of 188.02, including two centuries and six half-centuries.

Squad Adjustments Before T20I Series

In other news, Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand, which begins on January 21.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed this update on January 16.

Sundar experienced acute discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on January 11, prompting scans and a consultation with a specialist.

He has been diagnosed with a side strain and has been advised to rest for several days before reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for further evaluation.

The BCCI Men's Selection Committee has named star leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi as Sundar's replacement for the T20I series.

Shreyas Iyer Joins the Squad

Additionally, Shreyas Iyer has been added to the T20I squad for the first three matches as a replacement for the injured Tilak Varma.

India's Updated T20I Squad

The updated T20I squad for India includes: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shreyas Iyer (for the first three T20Is), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), and Ravi Bishnoi.