The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has witnessed an unprecedented explosion of run-scoring, with eight totals exceeding 250 runs and a record-breaking number of sixes. Amidst this run-fest, young Abhishek Sharma has emerged as a standout performer, showcasing his exceptional batting prowess.
The 23-year-old from Punjab has amassed 401 runs in 12 innings at a staggering strike rate of 205.64, hitting the most sixes (35) and boasting the highest strike rate among batters with 400 or more runs. Sharma's breathtaking strokeplay has propelled him to the forefront of the tournament, holding his own against established names at the top of the order.
After leading India to the U-19 Asia Cup title in 2016 and being part of the 2018 U-19 World Cup-winning squad, Sharma was picked up by Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) in 2018. He joined SRH the following year but initially struggled to secure regular playing time.
However, in 2022, Sharma's career took a significant turn. The Sunrisers retained him for Rs.6.5 crore, and he repaid their faith with 426 runs that season. Despite a relatively quiet IPL in 2023 (226 runs), he delivered a stellar performance in domestic cricket, powering Punjab to their first Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 trophy with 480 runs at a strike rate of over 180.
In IPL 2024, Sharma has truly announced himself as a force to be reckoned with. He has formed a formidable opening partnership with Travis Head, who has also been in scintillating form. Together, they have instilled a sense of fear among the opposition, with Sharma's aggressive square-of-the-wicket play and clean swing of the bat proving particularly devastating.
Sharma's standout knocks include a 23-ball 63 against Mumbai Indians, a 12-ball 37 against Chennai Super Kings, a 12-ball 46 against Delhi Capitals, a 13-ball 31 against Royal Challengers Bangalore, and a 28-ball 75* against Lucknow Super Giants.
While Sharma may not have made it to India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, his performances in the IPL suggest that he is likely to be in the mix as some of the senior players move on. With batting in the shortest format becoming increasingly aggressive, Sharma's ability to lead the onslaught makes him a valuable asset for the future.
Tags: #IPL2024, #AbhishekSharma, #SunrisersHyderabad, #RunFest, #SixFest
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