Training with Yuvraj Singh changed the way I think of myself, made me more confident: Abhishek Sharma [Exclusive Interview]

Hailed as one of the future superstars of Indian cricket, Abhishek Sharma has made a pretty impressive start to his professional career. The 21-year-old has all qualities of a match-winner as he can contribute in all three departments. While the southpaw can score quick runs in crucial junctures of the game, his ability to bowl handy overs makes him an even greater asset.

Not to forget, Abhishek is a pretty good fielder as well. Speaking of Abhishek’s journey so far, the all-rounder led India U19 to the Youth Asia Cup title in December 2016. He finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament. He was also an important member of the Prithvi Shaw-led side that lifted the 2018 ICC U19 World Cup later in New Zealand.

Impressed by his heroics, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) bought him for INR 55 lakh in the 2018 IPL auctions. The southpaw made a mark straightaway, scoring a 19-ball 46 against Royal Challengers Bangalore on IPL debut. He joined Sunrisers Hyderabad in the next season and served them in the next three editions.

As far as domestic cricket is concerned, Abhishek represents Punjab and has also led the state team. With the all-rounder being 21, he still has a long way to go. However, his blitzes in early days are good signs for Indian cricket.

In an exclusive interview with CricTracker, Abhishek opened about many things and made some interesting revelations as well. From sharing his experience of training alongside Yuvraj to throwing light on SRH’s dismal campaign in IPL 2021, let’s look at how the talented youngster responded to our queries.

Here are the excerpts from Abhishek Sharma’s interview:

Any specific cricketing thought from Rahul Dravid the coach that will stay with you forever?

When I was leading the (Under-19) team under him (Rahul Dravid), he always use to tell me that, “you should always play your natural game. You don’t have any flaws in your batting style or bowling style. You just have to back yourself and be confident to become the best.” So, I still remember those words and it still motivates him whenever I am not doing well.

Yuvraj Singh spent time working with you on your cricketing skills during lockdown. How has it helped you improve your game?

It totally changed my batting and the way I think of myself because those practice sessions or rather those 3-4 months are my best memories till now and it totally changed me. I became more confident after that because we really worked on the skills and whatever I was lacking in and obviously he’s a legend and he was my idol when I started playing cricket.

So, it helped me a lot. He helped me in (enhancing) my strength and cricketing skills which I think changed me totally.

The best captain of all time is?

Kane Williamson

IPL 2021 wasn’t great for SRH. Moreover, a lot was said about David Warner removing from captaincy and also not being part of XI. Did it affect the dressing room environment during this period?

I think the first half was little bit (not that messy). Obviously, when we were not winning, there will be some changes. So, it was like we were gelling up together. However, the second half was pretty good as we were trying new things as a team and the management was giving chance to the youngsters. So, they were planning for the future and it was a good approach.

A bowler from the past you would like to face?

I think Brett Lee or Morne Morkel.

Your experience of playing with Kane Williamson?

The experience was really good because he always motivates you as a bowler. I have also batted with him in few games and he’s always ready to help you. So, whenever such words are coming from a legend, it boosts you up. Also, he’s very calm and composed. This was one factor I tried to implement on myself as I lead the Punjab team in domestic cricket.