SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) opening batter Abhishek Sharma has attributed his success in the IPL 2024 to the leadership of Pat Cummins and the team management. According to Sharma, Cummins emphasized an aggressive and attacking approach throughout the season, which allowed the team to flourish and perform exceptionally well.
“From the start of the tournament, the SRH captain Pat Cummins and the management were clear that they wanted an aggressive and attacking approach from the team. The message was clear that SRH had to dominate in every game. This approach suited me and I could go out there and express myself in the middle. I like to dominate when I am batting and that’s what I did,” Abhishek Sharma said.
Pat Cummins, who was acquired by SunRisers Hyderabad for a staggering Rs 20.25 crore during last year’s mini-auction, was appointed as the skipper after the team finished at the bottom of the standings the previous season. Under Cummins’ leadership, SRH adopted a more aggressive playing style, leading to several high-scoring matches, including a record-breaking 287 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Despite their strong performance, SRH fell short in the final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), being bowled out for just 113 runs.
Abhishek Sharma entered the IPL 2024 season after being excluded from two Ranji Trophy matches by the Punjab state team. However, his form was stellar, having played a significant role in Punjab’s victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 485 runs in ten innings at an impressive strike rate of 192.46. His performance in the IPL was equally notable, with Sharma scoring 484 runs at an average of 32.27 and a strike rate of 204.22.
The selectors have taken notice of Sharma’s fearless approach, and he is expected to receive a maiden call-up to the national team. Following the T20 World Cup, India will tour Zimbabwe for a five-match T20I series in July. Abhishek Sharma is likely to be considered for this tour as the selectors may opt for younger talent.
Sharma’s journey in IPL 2024 and his potential call-up to the national team highlight his significant progress as a cricketer and the impact of strong leadership and clear communication within a team.
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