Abhishek Sharma delivers remarkable statement on IPL's influence after maiden ton for India

Young Indian opener Abhishek Sharma has credited his smooth transition to the Indian cricket team to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after showcasing the same aggressive intent as the IPL 2024 season in the second T20I match against Zimbabwe in Harare on July 7.

The left-handed batter believes that the IPL prepares young players for the pressures of international cricket. Playing in just his second T20I, Abhishek impressed the Harare crowd with a stunning match-winning century off 46 balls.

Abhishek Sharma’s explosive century in Harare highlights IPL's role in grooming young Indian cricketers

His remarkable performance helped Team India level the ongoing five-match T20I series 1-1 by securing a dominant 100-run win over Zimbabwe in the second T20I. Well, Abhishek believes that the IPL is instrumental in easing the pressure on young players when they step onto the international stage.

The young Indian batting all-rounder also noted that the experience and confidence gained from playing in the IPL provide a solid foundation for the youngsters, making it easier for debutants to perform at the international level.

Reflecting on his innings, Abhishek has emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong mindset and showing intent regardless of the occasion, which are crucial elements in T20 cricket.

The 23-year-old also mentioned that his familiarity with fellow Indian debutants, including Riyan Parag, boosted his confidence, as they had played together since their under-14 days. Despite an earlier setback in the ongoing T20I series, Abhishek remained focused and determined, believing that a positive approach often leads to success.

Abhishek Sharma credits IPL for a seamless transition to International Cricket

Notably, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) star had a forgettable India debut as he was dismissed for a four-ball duck in the first T20I. However, he didn’t take the time to show the world his talent, and his century in the second game in Harare perfectly highlighted the role of the IPL in grooming young Indian cricketers for the international arena.

Abhishek Sharma was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz: “I think IPL plays a big role in this because as a youngster, as a debutant, we didn't feel much pressure when we came to represent the country. It's always a great motivation once you are playing for the country. Unfortunately, it didn't go well in yesterday's game, but my mindset and intent was same. I had a word with the other debutants too, we've all played cricket together a long time, since U14 days I'd say. I think it's all about approach in T20, about intent. If I show intent and if it is my day, it usually goes like this.”

Meanwhile, Abhishek revealed that he had used his India skipper and long-time teammate Shubman Gill's bat for the second T20I, and he has frequently been using his bat. Both players hail from the same state, Punjab, and have grown up playing together since their early years.

The young Indian opener also acknowledged that the young Indian team was disappointed after losing the first game of the ongoing five-match T20I series in Zimbabwe, especially because the first-string squad had just clinched the T20 World Cup 2024 a few days earlier.