Faf du Plessis Offers Key Advice to Abhishek Sharma Ahead of T20 World Cup Clash

As India gears up for the T20 World Cup 2026, former South African captain Faf du Plessis has offered valuable advice to opener Abhishek Sharma. With Sharma struggling to find form, scoring just 15 runs in four innings, including three ducks, du Plessis emphasizes the need for heightened tactical awareness. He highlights how teams are exploiting Sharma's strengths with unconventional field placements and slower deliveries. Du Plessis encourages Sharma to adapt quickly to these strategies to enhance his performance in crucial matches. This article delves into the tactical insights shared by du Plessis and how they can help Sharma regain his form.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 10:23 IST

Expert Guidance for Abhishek Sharma

Faf du Plessis, the former captain of South Africa, has shared crucial insights with Indian opener Abhishek Sharma as he prepares for India's pivotal T20 World Cup 2026 match against Zimbabwe. Sharma has faced significant challenges recently, managing only 15 runs across four innings, which includes three consecutive ducks.

Understanding Opposition Tactics

In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, Du Plessis pointed out that teams are strategically exploiting Sharma's strengths by employing unconventional field placements and targeting him with slower deliveries. He emphasized the importance for Sharma to quickly adapt to these tactics to avoid being outmaneuvered in high-stakes games.

Tactical Awareness and Field Strategies

Du Plessis elaborated on how analysts have made the game more strategic, with opponents placing deep point and deep extra cover to counter Sharma's off-side hitting prowess. He stressed that it is crucial for the batter to recognize the bowlers' intentions and modify his shot selection accordingly.

"What I’ve noticed recently is that teams are placing a deep point and a deep extra cover because he excels at hitting through the off side," Du Plessis remarked. "The key is to be aware of the opposition's strategy as soon as you step onto the field."

Challenges with Slower Deliveries

Du Plessis also pointed out that bowlers are intentionally reducing the pace of the ball to take advantage of Sharma's long swing. He noted that Sharma was dismissed by off-spinners in matches against Pakistan and the Netherlands, while Marco Jansen's slower delivery caught him off guard in the game against South Africa.

"Teams are frequently using slower balls against him because of his elegant swing," Du Plessis explained. "The strategy is to take pace off the ball when facing players with such a long swing."

Adjusting to Different Bowling Styles

He advised Sharma to make a decision on whether to advance down the wicket to create pace or to stay back and adjust for slower deliveries, ensuring that his hands remain in sync with the ball.