Former India batter Ajay Jadeja lavished praise on Abhishek Sharma after the opener’s explosive half-century helped India recover from an early collapse in the first T20 International against England on Wednesday.
Abhishek smashed 59 off just 24 balls, hitting six fours and four sixes, as India posted 189/7 after being reduced to 6/2 inside the first two overs. However, persistent rain prevented England from beginning their chase, forcing the match to be abandoned at Chester-le-Street.
‘He’s Our Original Boss Baby’
With teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dominating headlines in recent weeks and earning the nickname “Boss Baby” for his fearless batting, Jadeja reminded fans that Abhishek has been playing the role for much longer.
“We were talking about the Boss Baby. He is our old Boss Baby. Since the time he came, he has maintained the same approach. The good thing is that the approach hasn’t changed at all. In his batting, it doesn’t even seem like he is applying force to hit fours and sixes. The flow is so good,” Jadeja said on Sony Sports Network.
‘Difficult For Bowlers To Stop Him’
Jadeja highlighted Abhishek’s ability to score all around the ground, saying it makes life extremely difficult for bowlers.
“Attacking players generally play in one direction. Someone plays very well on the off side, and someone plays very well on the leg side. His striking ability is from deep point to fine leg. That makes it so difficult for bowlers, and that’s probably the biggest reason behind his success,” he added.
India Recover After Early Collapse
India endured a nightmare start after losing Sanju Samson (1) and Ishan Kishan (0) within the first two overs.
Abhishek counter-attacked immediately, taking the pressure off the middle order before captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with 68 off 47 balls. Shivam Dube then provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 42 off 21 deliveries, helping India reach a competitive 189/7.
England pacer Saqib Mahmood was the standout bowler for the hosts, finishing with 3/33.
Rain Washes Out Opening Match
Heavy rain arrived immediately after India’s innings in Durham, leaving the outfield unplayable. As conditions failed to improve, officials called off the match without a single ball being bowled in England’s innings.
Second T20I In Manchester
The five-match T20I series remains level after the washout, with both teams set to meet in the second T20I in Manchester on Saturday.