India, after being defeated in the three-match ODI series 1-2, will probably attempt to recover their losses through their performance in the five-match T20I series against Australia, which begins on Wednesday in Canberra. However, most of the focus will be on India's power-hitter opener, Abhishek Sharma, who in a short time, has become one of the team's most significant offensive players with the bat in white-ball cricket. In fact, the left-hand batsman of 25 years was the top scorer for India in Asia Cup 2025, where he scored a total of 314 runs in seven matches and was the main reason for their championship-winning campaign.
Nayar backs Abhishek Sharma to dominate Josh Hazlewood
Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar believes Abhishek will be key in India’s top order, particularly in his face-off against Australia’s in-form pacer Josh Hazlewood. “If Abhishek Sharma is in form, Hazlewood will be out of form,” Nayar said on Star Sports. “He is known to attack from the very first ball, often hitting boundaries right away. If you create fear during the power play, it carries through the innings. That’s Abhishek Sharma’s impact, if he bats six overs, India can easily reach 60 to 80 runs, easing pressure on his partner while piling it on the opposition.”
Nayar acknowledged that it would be a stern test for Abhishek, especially against Hazlewood, who has been in terrific rhythm and troubling batters with extra bounce. “It will be a big challenge, but Abhishek has the experience of playing in the IPL and in South Africa. He knows how to handle quality pace,” he added.
Hazlewood, who was outstanding in the recently concluded ODI series, consistently challenged Indian batters with his sharp movement and control, a sign that Abhishek will have to be at his very best.
Nayar further emphasised that this series is a golden opportunity for the young opener to make his mark in Australia. “He has a fearless mindset and will want to make a name for himself here. There’s nothing more satisfying for a batter than earning respect in Australia. From what I know of Abhishek, he’ll be determined to do exactly that,” Nayar said.
