Abhishek Sharma ‘had six batting skills from the beginning’, teammate reveals untold story

Abhishek Sharma Entering the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as the number one batsman, he is expected to dominate with his aggressive batting after a breakthrough 2025 season. However, the campaign struggled early on for the 25-year-old, who started three games in a row and scored some low scores, leading to criticism and questions about his place in the XI. Despite a poor start, Abhishek found his rhythm in the crucial stages. His composed performance of 55 against Zimbabwe in the Super 8s hinted at a comeback at the most critical moment. In the final against New Zealand, he smashed 52 off 21 balls to score an opening score of 98 Sanzhou Samson The foundation was laid for India to win the championship. Coming into the tournament as the number one batsman, it was a season that tested his approach and temperament, and he ended up excelling. In an interaction with TOI, his childhood friend and Punjab teammate Nehal Wadhera narrated Abhishek’s journey, recalling the talent he displayed from an early age. “Abhishek and I have been playing together since the under-14 days. So, yes, Abhishek definitely has those batting skills from the beginning,” Vadra said. He went on to recount a memorable Under-16 match that highlighted Abhishek’s ability to perform under pressure. “I still remember in the under-16 state championships, he was our captain. Him, me, Shubman, Prabhusimran, Naman Dhir – every one of us was together and we won the championship that year too. There was a match against Gujarat and we were chasing 410 on the turning track on the last day. Abhishek and Shubman tied the score. I think one got 150 and the other got 180. We always knew what he was capable of.” Vadra stressed that the aggressive batsmen seen in the world today are a result of natural ability and consistent hard work. “The games we’re watching now, we already know that. But he’s definitely worked hard for it. How he maximizes his opportunities in the powerplay is really commendable. It’s all thanks to Yuvraj Singh and his father, who are his coaches and mentors.” Watching the rise of Abhishek, Vadra has also carved his own path in the IPL, steadily growing into a reliable middle-order batsman.

Learn from Ricky Ponting

Vadra spoke about head coach Ricky Ponting’s impact on Kings XI Punjab, recalling his first interaction during the training camp in Dharamshala. “That was the first time I met him. He was a very happy person, always positive, always keeping the environment pleasant,” Vadra said. “He appreciates me when I hit boundaries and sixes. I even asked him about his mentality when playing international cricket and how he handles fast bowlers during this period.” “Maintaining a positive environment is the most important thing for a head coach. I think he’s done a really good job.”

Play Rohit Sharma

Vadra began his IPL career with Mumbai Indians, making his debut under Rohit Sharma, an experience he still holds in high regard.

“I was lucky enough to make my debut under Rohit Sharma. He is someone I idolized growing up. I will always be grateful. I also thoroughly enjoyed my time at MI, the two years I was there.”

leadership Shreyas Iyer

Vadra, who is now part of Kings XI Punjab, highlighted what makes captain Shreyas Iyer special. “He has a different aura. He encourages players to play freely, no matter the result. This gives a lot of confidence. “

He added that this freedom allows players to fully express themselves and bring their domestic form to the IPL stage without fear. Wadhera’s own IPL journey reflects steady growth. He made his debut in 2023 and scored two half-centuries in his first season. Despite limited opportunities in 2024, he still impressed in his comeback game, shooting 49-for-24 from the field. After being released ahead of the 2025 mega auction, he attracted interest from multiple franchises before Kings XI Punjab bought him for Rs 420 crore. He justified the investment by scoring 369 points in 16 games with a strike rate of over 145 and playing a key role in the team’s advancement to the finals.

Going forward, Vadra remains firmly focused on collective success rather than individual milestones, especially after the disastrous defeat by Kings XI Punjab last season. “There are personal goals but I will talk about them once they are achieved. The only goal now is to win trophies.” Vadra, who narrowly missed out on the title with six straight defeats to Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final, is determined to do better this time. With a stable core, clear roles and strong support from the management, Kings XI Punjab head into IPL 2026 with a renewed sense of belief as they aim to turn last year’s heartbreak into trophies.