Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood may have troubled the Indian batsmen in the ODI series but he has no chance against the mercurial Abhishek Sharma, former India batsman Abhishek Nayar said. Ahead of the first T20I of the five-match series, Nayar said that when he is in form, the left-hander is extremely difficult to stop.
Abhishek Sharma is having an incredible Asia Cup 2025 campaign, finishing as the top scorer and playing a key role in India’s unbeaten run in the tournament. The No. 1 T20I batsman has seen his career skyrocket since 2024 after a prolific season in the Indian Premier League.
Ahead of the start of the T20I, Abhishek Nayar said the left-hander has the ability to dominate Josh Hazlewood, who has been in sensational form in the last three ODIs against India.
“If Abhishek Sharma is in form, Hazlewood will not be in form. The way he bats, he is known to hit the first ball for a four or a six. If you give the power bowler a scare, it continues throughout the innings. That is Abhishek Sharma’s impact on the game. If he bowls six overs, India will score between 60 and 80, his pressure will be eased to 80. Nayar told the pre-match broadcast in Canberra.
Hazlewood tormented the Indian batsmen in all three matches of the ODI series, making life difficult for the top-order in the first two matches by getting plenty of bounce on the Perth and Adelaide pitches. His spell in the second ODI was particularly impressive, though he was unlucky not to pick up any wickets.
Nayar added that facing Hazlewood will be a big challenge for the young batsman and that Abhishek will be eager to dominate in Australia after performing well in India and UAE.
“It will be a big test for him, especially against Hazlewood, who is in good rhythm and has an extravagant bounce. However, I feel he has gained enough experience playing in the IPL and in South Africa,” said Nayar.
“He has a fearless mindset and will want to make his mark in Australia. It’s a good chance for him because it’s very satisfying to earn respect here. From what I know about him, he would definitely want to make a name for himself in this series,” he concluded.
India will play their first T20I in the capital Canberra on October 29.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
October 28, 2025
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