Abhishek Sharmahas voiced his ambition to represent India in the T20 World Cup next year after an impressive T20I series against Australia. Abhishek earned the Player of the Series accolade for accounting 163 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 161.38.
He expressed how excitement he was about playing in Australia from the moment the tour was announced. Abhishek reserved special praise for Josh Hazlewood, who was rested after the first two T20Is for recovering fully for the upcoming home Ashes.
"Been waiting for this tournament. When I got to know we're going to Australia for T20Is, I was very excited. Have seen throughout my career that Australia is very batting friendly. Feel that we could've got better totals in between. The way he (Hazlewood) was bowling, it was beneficial for any team. I've said before that I always enjoy the battle between batters and bowlers. He's a world-class bowler. If you want to play good cricket and do well in the future, you have to face world-class bowlers. I was practicing for these kind of bowlers only because that's how you're going to do well for your team," stated Abhishek during the post-match presentation.
The 25-year-old commended Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir for providing clarity on his role with the bat. He concluded by noting that it will be a 'dream come true' moment if he gets to represent the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup next year.
"Special mention to captain and coach, they've given me this responsibility to just go and express myself. I feel as a batter, when you're scoring 20s and 30s, it's not easy for you... The clarity they've given me to set the momentum for the team, that's what I've been practicing in the nets and the off-season as well.
It's one of the biggest tournaments (the T20 World Cup at home next year). It's my dream come true moment if I'll be playing the World Cup. As a kid, I've always dreamt about this - winning the World Cup and winning matches for my country. Will make sure I'm ready for that tournament," he added.
Abhishek's most impressive knock came in the second T20I in Melbourne, in which he scored 68 off 37, hitting eight fours and two sixes in a losing cause.
Indiaended up losing the match by four wickets in 40 balls. However, Abhishek ended up emerging as the top-scorer. Abhishek and the rest will now be in action against South Africa during the five T20Is which will be played in India.
