Melbourne, October 31: India’s young opener Abhishek Sharma revealed the reasoning behind sending Harshit Rana ahead of Shivam Dube in the batting order during the second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.
India’s batting lineup faced a stern test on a lively Australian pitch, with extra bounce and disciplined bowling catching the visitors slightly off guard. Sharma top-scored for India with a resilient 68-run knock, but Australia chased down the target comfortably to win by four wickets.
“Many of us, including myself, are on our first tour here,” Sharma said in the post-match press conference. “We knew about the extra bounce and pace, but the way they bowled, disciplined with line and length, was surprising. Credit goes to them.”
Sharma explained that India’s initial aggressive top-order strategy had to be adjusted as wickets fell early. “Our plan was to dominate up front, but when wickets fall in front of you, no matter who the batter is, you have to play for the team. The wicket was difficult; it wasn’t easy to hit shots,” he added.
Highlighting the crucial sixth-wicket partnership, Sharma praised his lower-order partner Harshit Rana for composure under pressure. Together, they added 56 runs, stabilizing the innings. “I knew Harshit could bat – he hits sixes off me a lot in the nets. He told me, ‘let’s play a little normal,’ and that helped. The right-left combination worked well, and that’s why he went up the order ahead of Shivam Dube,” Sharma explained.
Sharma also reflected on the fearless approach he has developed at the crease. “When I play, I try to bring the bowler under pressure. This approach has its ups and downs, but my captain and coach have always supported me. They are clear that I should play my natural game, and when they say that, it gives me confidence.”
The 24-year-old noted that his mindset has evolved since earlier stints with the national team. “After the Zimbabwe series, I was overthinking a bit. But when the captain and coach told me to play freely, it became clear in my mind. When I play my shots and the team wins, I enjoy it more.”
Sharma also expressed enjoyment in facing Australia’s world-class pace attack. “Some of the deliveries even surprised me – I haven’t seen something like that in T20s before. But I was enjoying the challenge,” he said.
He concluded by praising the Indian women’s team for their emphatic victory over Australia in the Women’s World Cup. “We were all watching their match. The way Jemimah, Harman, and Smriti batted with maturity and teamwork was inspiring. They really deserve that trophy,” Sharma said.
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