Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Sanjay Bangar Says Fearless Cricket Is Team India’s New Identity
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes that left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma perfectly represents the brand of T20 cricket the current Indian team wants to play. According to Bangar, the fearless and aggressive style India is aiming for in the shortest format is best reflected through a player like Abhishek Sharma.
India will defend their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title next month, with their campaign beginning against the USA on February 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Ahead of the marquee tournament, Abhishek Sharma has emerged as a key component of India’s ultra-attacking T20 setup, providing explosive starts and putting opposition bowlers under pressure from the very first over.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a remarkable year in 2025, finishing as the top-ranked batter in the T20 format according to ICC rankings. He amassed 859 runs during the year, showcasing consistency along with his aggressive intent. Speaking on JioStar, Sanjay Bangar said that the fearless brand of cricket India wants to adopt in T20s is only possible with players like Abhishek Sharma in the side.
Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina also praised Abhishek’s batting abilities, highlighting the wide range of shots that make him stand out in the batting line-up. Raina pointed out Abhishek’s powerful bat swing, his ability to hit sixes off spinners while staying deep in his crease, and his elegant stroke play through the covers. He added that Abhishek is particularly effective against full-length deliveries and uses his feet exceptionally well, allowing him to hit straight down the ground with authority.
Meanwhile, former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Abhishek’s versatility separates him from traditional top-order batters. Pujara noted that while many top-order players tend to dominate on the leg side, Abhishek is equally effective on the off side. He shows attacking intent from the very first ball, often looking to hit a boundary early in his innings. Pujara also praised Abhishek’s ability to read the length quickly and execute a wide variety of shots.
Overall, Abhishek Sharma has become the symbol of India’s new, aggressive, and fearless T20 mindset—one that could prove crucial in their title defence at the upcoming World Cup.