Abhishek Sharma is currently the number one T20 batsman, holding the highest rating points in T20 cricket history. Sharma himself revealed the secret to his explosive batting prowess. In a podcast, Sharma shared how the environment within the Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL team, influenced by Pat Cummins and Travis Head, changed his mindset. Cummins and Head’s approach elevated his game to a new level.
During a conversation on Breakfast With Champions, Sharma stated, ‘I will tell you about the impact of Travis Head, Pat Cummins, and Daniel Vettori. I couldn’t have gotten a better environment. Pat Cummins would tell 5-6 of us batsmen, which bowlers do you want to hit? Just go and hit them all. Pat Cummins says that even if the score is 50 for 6 wickets, the 7th batsman should get out while hitting. Don’t be afraid of getting out. I’m okay with being all out at 100, but I don’t want scores of 160-170. If it’s the first ball or the last ball, hit all 6 balls for sixes, then go for it. I want teams to fear us.’
The influence of Pat Cummins and Travis Head has significantly impacted Sharma. This is evident in his performance not only in the IPL but also in T20 Internationals, where he maintains a strike rate close to 200. In the Asia Cup, Sharma scored 314 runs in 7 matches with a strike rate of 200, averaging around 45, and was named Player of the Series. He is now expected to join the ODI team soon, with reports suggesting his inclusion in the upcoming ODI series against Australia. India is scheduled to tour Australia this month for ODI and T20 series.