Watch: 'Luckily, I got them as mentors' - Abhishek Sharma honors Yuvraj Singh, Brian Lara on Guru Purnima

On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima on Sunday, July 21, the Indian Cricket Team’s young opener, Abhishek Sharma, honored his mentors, legendary Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and legendary West Indies batter Brian Lara, while highlighting their roles in his development.

Expressing heartfelt appreciation to his gurus on Guru Purnima, Abhishek, who recently made his India debut on the Zimbabwe tour, shared insights into how cricket legends Lara and Yuvraj have significantly influenced his development as a cricketer.

Abhishek Sharma reveals the influence of Yuvraj Singh and Brian Lara on his career

Notably, the young all-rounder met Lara at the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) when the West Indies great was coach of the franchise in the IPL, and since then, he has been mentoring him. Brian Lara has been providing Abhishek with batting tips, strategic insights, and mental toughness, which have been instrumental for the youngster.

Well, the 23-year-old batting all-rounder acknowledged the key roles both mentors have played in refining his game while opening up about a unique and intense training camp helped by the former Indian all-rounder at home during COVID-19 times.

Abhishek said that he is lucky to have Lara and Yuvraj as mentors, saying their guidance has been invaluable, not just in cricket but in life. The left-hander said that he regularly seeks their advice, and their insights proved really helpful for them, given their vast experiences.

I'm lucky to have Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh as mentors: Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma said in a video shared by Star Sports on social media platform: “I liked Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh from the beginning. And luckily, I got both of them as mentors. Whenever I discuss something with them, I feel that they have been through this before. So, whenever I have a problem, not just in cricket but even off the field as well, I personally text or call them. I always get the right answer from them.”

Meanwhile, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRH opener, along with fellow teammates Shubman Gill and Prabhsimran Singh, had the opportunity to stay at Yuvraj Singh's house for an exclusive, off-the-record training camp.

This two-month camp, not affiliated with any cricket association, was organized by Yuvraj to provide intensive training in batting, bowling, and fielding for them. Abhishek revealed that the camp also included interview sessions every Sunday, where the players were assessed and guided on various aspects of the game by the former World Cup winner.

Yuvraj Singh used to interview us every Sunday: Abhishek Sharma

Sharma emphasized how this rigorous training regime was crucial in enhancing his skills, particularly in batting. He signed off by saying, “During COVID, I stayed at his (Yuvraj) house. Me, Shubman Gill, and Prabhsimran Singh. He had set up an off-season camp. Especially off the record, not with any association.

But he trained all three of us. And I think that training was very useful for every batsman and every player. Especially for me. Because it was a two-month period for us. In batting, bowling, and fielding. Even in our interview course, he used to interview us every Sunday. So, I think that helped a lot.”

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@IamAbhiSharma4 reveals how @BrianLara and @YUVSTRONG12 played pivotal roles in refining his game, including a special two-month, off-the-record camp with Yuvi 😍

This Guru Purnima, we celebrate such mentors 🙏#TeamIndia #GuruPurnima #Cricket pic.twitter.com/VbRvF35eIe

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 21, 2024