Cricket Runs in the Family
Talent often runs in the family, and the Sharmas are a prime example. Abhishek's first coach was his father, Raj Kumar Sharma, a former cricketer who instilled a love for the game in him from the age of three. But the cricketing lineage doesn't stop there.
His elder sister, Komal Sharma, is a qualified physiotherapist with a Master's in Orthopaedics who plays a crucial role in his fitness and training. She has become a familiar face for fans, often seen cheering him on from the stands and is considered his lucky charm. The family's deep involvement in the sport has been a cornerstone of his journey from a young prodigy in Amritsar to a star on the international stage.
The Yuvraj Singh Mentorship
While many know that Yuvraj Singh is Abhishek's idol, the depth of their mentor-protégé relationship is a significant factor in his recent success. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Yuvraj took Abhishek and Shubman Gill under his wing for intensive training. This wasn't just about technical skills; Yuvraj focused on building a big-match mentality, preparing Abhishek not just for the IPL, but to win crucial games for India. Abhishek has spoken about how Yuvraj's tough-love approach and belief in him during lean patches reshaped his mindset and focused him on a bigger goal. Yuvraj's guidance has been so influential that it even extended to encouraging Abhishek to take up golf to improve his batting rhythm.
A Leader from a Young Age
Long before he became known for his explosive opening in the IPL, Abhishek was honing his leadership skills. In 2016, at just 16, he captained the India U-19 team to victory in the ACC Asia Cup. He was the player of the match in the final, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure from early on. He also led the U-19 team during an ODI series against England in 2017. This early experience in captaincy highlights a side of his game that goes beyond just power-hitting, demonstrating a tactical understanding and the ability to lead a team to victory on a big stage, qualities that were evident even as a teenager.
Record-Breaking Youth Career
Abhishek's reputation as a prodigy was cemented by his phenomenal performances in age-group cricket. In the 2015-16 Vijay Merchant Trophy for U-16s, he was in a league of his own, amassing an incredible 1,200 runs. He also dominated with the ball in the same tournament, taking 57 wickets. His transition to senior domestic cricket was just as impactful. In 2021, he smashed a 42-ball century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which at the time was the second-fastest List A hundred by an Indian. These early records were a clear indication of the special talent he possessed, setting the stage for his future exploits for Punjab and in the IPL.
A Disciplined Off-Field Routine
Behind the on-field aggression lies a highly disciplined individual. Abhishek is known for his intense fitness regimen, which often starts at 4 a.m. This strict routine, reportedly encouraged by his mentor Yuvraj Singh, includes meditation, swimming, gym work, and then practice. This dedication to fitness helps him maintain the high levels of concentration and energy required for his explosive style of play. Off the field, he enjoys travelling, with Kashmir being a recent destination, and is also keen on fashion, styling himself. He is deeply religious, having built a small temple in his home in Amritsar, a space that he used to use for storing his bats as a child.
