Faf Du Plessis Encourages Abhishek Sharma to Focus Amid T20 World Cup Pressure

Former South African cricketer Faf Du Plessis has offered crucial advice to Indian opener Abhishek Sharma as he faces challenges in the T20 World Cup. Du Plessis emphasizes the importance of ignoring external noise and focusing on personal strengths. He discusses the evolving tactics teams are using against Sharma, particularly the increased use of slower deliveries. With a significant match against Zimbabwe on the horizon, Du Plessis believes Sharma has the potential to deliver an outstanding performance, drawing from his impressive IPL history. This article delves into Du Plessis's insights and predictions for Sharma's future in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 22:38 IST

Du Plessis Backs Sharma to Shine

Faf Du Plessis, the former South African cricket star, expressed his belief that Indian opener Abhishek Sharma must tune out external distractions as he navigates the ongoing T20 World Cup. Du Plessis is confident that Sharma is poised to deliver an impressive performance.

Throughout the group stage of the T20 World Cup, fans eagerly anticipated Sharma, the leading T20I batsman, to kickstart his scoring. He finally opened his account with a boundary against South Africa, but his performance fell short of expectations, managing only 15 runs off 12 balls. The upcoming match against Zimbabwe presents a significant opportunity for him, especially since he scored his first international century against them in his second T20I match back in 2024.

Du Plessis Discusses Tactical Adjustments

In an interview with ESPNcricinfo Timeout, Du Plessis highlighted the evolving strategies teams are employing against Sharma. He noted that bowlers are now placing fielders in deep positions to counter Sharma's strength in hitting through the offside.

He emphasized the importance of Sharma making clear decisions upon arriving at the crease, weighing whether to reduce risk and rotate the strike or to unleash his powerful shots.

Challenges with Slower Deliveries

Du Plessis pointed out that bowlers are increasingly using slower balls to challenge Sharma, aiming to exploit his aggressive batting style. These deliveries can mislead him, resulting in mistimed shots that lead to easy catches or misses.

He shared his own approach to facing slower balls, suggesting that players either step down the wicket to generate pace or remain back to prepare for the slower delivery, ensuring their hands are positioned correctly.

Advice for Young Cricketer Sharma

Du Plessis acknowledged the overwhelming amount of advice Sharma is likely receiving from various sources, which can be daunting for a young player in his first World Cup.

He praised Sharma's remarkable performance over the past year, where he has dominated various bowling attacks. Du Plessis expressed his confidence that Sharma will eventually deliver a standout innings in the tournament, citing his impressive track record in recent IPL seasons. He urged Sharma to focus on his strengths and maintain mental clarity amidst the surrounding noise.