Sanju Samson’s near-century lit up Eden Gardens as India crushed West Indies to storm into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals. However, the spotlight has shifted to struggling opener Abhishek Sharma, whose form has become Team India’s biggest worry.
Anil Kumble, ex-India skipper, dissected Abhishek’s woes on ESPNcricinfo. ‘His head looks muddled, confidence is missing,’ Kumble said. He emphasized reducing external pressures, especially after India’s wins heighten expectations on the opener.
Kumble firmly opposed benching Abhishek ahead of the semis. Ranked No. 1 in T20 batting globally, Abhishek’s World Cup has been a rollercoaster. After three golden ducks, a fifty against Zimbabwe offered hope, but he faltered again with 10 against West Indies.
Battling a pre-tournament sickness, Abhishek is hunting his peak form. His T20 stats dazzle: 1,377 runs in 43 innings from 44 games, strike rate 189.40, two tons, nine fifties, and a record 135 for an Indian.
India’s semifinal ambitions rest partly on Abhishek bouncing back. A match-winning innings could redefine his campaign and push India closer to glory.