Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is once again in the headlines, but this time for his playful side, as a light-hearted video of him imitating star
opening batter Abhishek Sharma’s batting style went viral across social media platforms.
In the clip, Chahal can be seen mimicking Abhishek’s aggressive strokeplay in a humorous manner, leaving fans and teammates in splits. The video, which has been widely shared online, highlights the strong camaraderie the duo share. Chahal then went on to extend his best wishes to the young opener, backing him and the Indian team to do well at the marquee event.
“Today, I am going to bat in Abhishek's style, in "Junior" Sharma's style. After this, add some shots. See, my sixes, Abhishek Sharma. And good luck my brother, for the World Cup and the whole team. We have to win the [ICC Men's T20] World Cup,” Chahal said jokingly in a video posted by his current IPL franchise Punjab Kings.
Watch the video here
Junior Sharma ji, aap se better kiya na? 😂
— Yuzvendra Chahal (@yuzi_chahal) February 10, 2026
Wishing the entire Indian team all the best for the World Cup! Jai Hind 🇮🇳#CWCT20 #TeamIndia #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/MKNqcn0psi
Chahal is not in India’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 despite being there in 2024 when the Rohit Sharma-led side lifted the title and being seen doing commentary for the event. He last played for India in August 2023 versus the West Indies and since has not been included in the Indian team's setup. He is currently training for the upcoming season of the IPL 2026, where he will turn up for PBKS.
I would play both Kuldeep and Varun: Yuzvendra Chahal
The veteran leg spinner provided his thoughts on what the Men in Blue's bowling combination should be, ahead of the competition. The skilled leg-spinner believes that the Men in Blue should look to include both- mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthyand left-arm unorthodox spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the Playing XI.
"I would play both Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy. But Axar Patel can’t be kept out. There is a fixed spot for every player. Hardik Pandya can’t be told to open the innings. He plays at six or seven. When India has a World No. 1 bowler in Varun and Axar is there is as an all-rounder, accommodating a third spinner is difficult as dew is heavy in India. It also depends upon when the matches start. If the wicket is dry, three spinners can be played. Also, wrist-spinners can turn the ball on any wicket," Chahal said as quoted by Sports Tak.
Team India chose not to field three spinners against the USA in their opening clash. They took the field with two spinners, Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy, en route to their victory.
