Will Abhishek Sharma play tonight for IND vs NZ in T20 World Cup 2026 final?
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Abhishek Sharma had a forgettable campaign in T20 World Cup 2026 with only 89 runs to his name.
The Indian Cricket Team batter Abhishek Sharma has been in the spotlight- but this time because of his poor performances. The opening batter was expected to set the stage on fire in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as in the build-up to the tournament, he was in red-hot form. However, as soon as the tournament started, his form dipped and he also faced health issues, which made things worse.
In the games that he has played, Abhishek Sharma has slammed just 89 runs, which is well below the expectations which were set by him ahead of the tournament.
India are all set to lock horns with New Zealand in the final T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, March 8. With match just around the corner, all eyes will be on India’s team selection, especially Abhisek.
Will Abhishek Sharma play IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 final?
The selection of Abhishek Sharma ahead of the final has come under more scrutiny due to a tough tournament campaign so far. The left-hander started tournament with three ducks and has hit just one fifty, which came in a single match against Zimbabwe.
In the semi-final against England, he managed just nine runs, and also with Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan in good form, there have been calls to drop him. Many are the of the opinion that dropping him will allow India to open with Sanju and Ishan and fit Rinku in the XI as well.
However, it is unlikely that Abhishek will be snubbed from the XI for final despite some unverified reports claiming that he will miss the match.
Ahead of the semi-final India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel backed the opening batter to do good and made an interesting comparison with Sanju Samson, who recently came out of a prolonged drought of poor performance and turned into a match-winner.
Abhishek will have a one final opportunity to silence all his critics. If he returns to form, India automatically become favourites to win the final as he, on his given day, can single handedly win the game for his team.
Will Abhishek Sharma play in the IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 final?
India’s team management has backed Abhishek and he is expected to retain his place in the playing XI.
Why is Abhishek Sharma under scrutiny in the T20 World Cup 2026?
The opener has struggled for form, scoring three ducks and only 89 runs the tournament.
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Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.