The controversy surrounding the shape of the T20 world cup in Abhishek Sharma has come at the worst time to India. In front of a high pressure confrontation with England, doubts are being cast as to whether India should continue with him heading the order. His play in the tournament has been unevenly balanced- there have been a few good beginnings, some early outings and no conclusive innings so far. However, is that an adequate cause to change now?
T20 is a risk-based format of cricket. The players such as the Abhishek Sharma are not hired to play safe cricket. They are selected to counter attack in the powerplay, to disrupt bowling strategies as well as to take momentum during the first six overs. The latter position is filled with failures and success. Speaking about the form of Abhishek Sharma T20 World Cup, one should keep in mind that his price cannot be determined simply by the averages, but by intention and influence.
Rohit Sharma, the former captain of India has on numerous occasions expressed his view regarding the necessity of supporting aggressive individuals in ICC tournaments. Self-confidence particularly in knockout matches can be the difference between indecisiveness and supremacy. The cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar has on many occasions pointed out that it is hardly ever that big games are won on the basis of cautious cricket; but through players who are ready to go for the game. Even England manager-former captain Nasser Hussain has underlined that the continual shuffling of an established line-up can cause greater upheaval than a brief spell of low scores.
The bowling attack of England lives on aggression and pace. Funny enough, that would fit Abhishek. He also likes the ball being hit on the bat and has demonstrated in domestic and franchise cricket that he can control pace when he gets himself into early rhythm. One clean hit would instantly turn the form of Abhishek Sharma T20 World Cup around. The only thing sometimes needed is a single appearance on a big stage and everything will change.
This is also a psychological aspect of this decision. Firing him at this point would be an indication of panic. Supporting him would be an indication of faith. This is especially the case in white-ball cricket where the role is clear and the management trusts the player thus will lead to the best performance of the player. This would eliminate the powerplay intention of India who have had it as the main focus of their T20 strategy in the recent past.
Tactically speaking, England are not a team that you can beat through conservatism. They assault with the bat and the ball. In response to that, India does not have to worry about fearless intent on the top. That fearless approach is provided by Abhishek Sharma. His returns have not been great yet, but his existence makes bowlers reconsider their lengths and fields.
I believe India should not succumb to the emotions of giving immediate response to the temporary outcomes. The debate on Abhishek Sharma T20 world cup form is quite explainable though tournaments are not won with safe selection. These are acquired through sponsoring players who can make game changers. In case India drop him and fails in the powerplay, the decision will be subject to enquiry at once. By his winning over them, it might be the tournament in case he delivers.
Surprise heroes are the norm with big matches. That is the opportunity that England offers. India must remain fearless, remain stable and support Abhishek Sharma – because at times all one needs is that faith to strike a match-winning assault.
