Indian Cricketers Set to Make World Cup Final Debuts Several current Indian players are set to participate in their first-ever Cricket World Cup final on Sunday. Among them are Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Verma, and Varun Chakravarthy. Notably, New Zealand captain Michael Santner won the toss in the T20 World Cup-2026 final at Ahmedabad, giving India the opportunity to bat first. The article highlights the significance of this event, emphasizing the debutant status of these players in the global tournament. It underscores the anticipation surrounding their performance as they step onto the international stage for the first time. The mention of Santner’s decision to bowl first adds context to the strategic dynamics of the match, reflecting the competitive nature of the tournament. The text also notes the historical context of the players’ careers, positioning their participation in the final as a milestone. While the specific details about their previous experiences are not elaborated, the focus remains on their entry into the World Cup final as a defining moment in their cricketing journeys. The article serves as a preview of the upcoming match, highlighting the blend of experience and youth in India’s squad.#ishan_kishan #sanju_samson #abhishek_sharma #indian_cricketers #cricket_world_cup
Abhishek Sharma Criticized by R Ashwin for Poor T20 World Cup Performance Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly criticized batter Abhishek Sharma's recent performance in the T20 World Cup, following Sharma's lackluster display against England in the semi-final. Sharma managed just nine runs off seven balls before losing his wicket to Will Jacks in the second over, marking another poor outing for the 25-year-old left-hander. His cumulative score in the tournament stands at 89 runs at an average of 12.71, with inconsistent performances including scores of 0, 0, 0, 15, 55, 10, and 9. Speaking on his YouTube channel "Ash Ki Baat," Ashwin expressed concerns about Sharma's approach to the England bowlers, particularly Jacks. He emphasized that Sharma had already hit Jacks for two boundaries earlier in the over, making it unnecessary to target him again. Instead, Ashwin suggested Sharma should have taken a single to rotate the strike to in-form opener Sanju Samson, who was performing exceptionally well at the other end. "Abhishek has that factor. In the series against New Zealand, he was in top form. He has batted well against Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry in the past. So I wouldn't be too fussed about Abhishek. But I would like to have a conversation with him. I would tell him, 'Listen, there's a plan against you.' So don't try hard to hit the ball," Ashwin said. Ashwin also highlighted the importance of mental composure for Sharma, noting that the player's tendency to force shots often leads to poor results. "He is a fluent player who relies on timing. You have to keep him in good space," he added. The veteran all-rounder further urged head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav to avoid placing undue pressure on Sharma.#gautam_gambhir #sanju_samson #abhishek_sharma #ravichandran_ashwin #will_jacks
T20 World Cup final: A father's quiet vigil as Abhishek Sharma prepares for his biggest night On the eve of the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand, Abhishek Sharma’s focus remained on his cricketing craft as he trained at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Indian opener, known for his explosive batting, spent nearly 30 minutes batting in the nets, facing a mix of throwdown specialists and bowlers. His technique, particularly against off-spin, showed improvement as he settled into his rhythm. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and head coach Gautam Gambhir observed closely, offering guidance and feedback. The session highlighted Sharma’s determination to regain his form ahead of the high-stakes clash. Abhishek’s father, Rajkumar Sharma, a former coach and lifelong supporter, watched from a distance but remained deeply engaged. Though unable to see the action as clearly without his glasses, he found comfort in the sounds of the shots and the energy of the practice session. The father, who had been a constant presence in Abhishek’s early cricketing days, maintained a quiet but unwavering belief in his son’s ability to deliver. “Everything will be good tomorrow,” he remarked, expressing confidence in the team’s chances to win the World Cup. The father’s role extended beyond emotional support. During the session, he interacted with ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who was inspecting preparations for the final. Rajkumar’s presence also coincided with a pivotal moment in Abhishek’s training. After a lengthy conversation with Gambhir, the coach summoned Sharma for a detailed pep talk. The exchange, marked by gestures and reassurance, underscored the pressure on the batter to perform. Despite his efforts, Sharma’s tournament has been marked by inconsistency.#gautam_gambhir #narendra_modi_stadium #abhishek_sharma #rajkumar_sharma #sitanshu_kotak
Ravi Shastri pinpoints key to recent success of Sanju Samson Sanju Samson’s resurgence at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has drawn attention from former India coach Ravi Shastri, who highlighted the mental shift in the right-hander’s approach as the main reason behind his recent form. Samson, who had struggled to secure a regular spot in India’s T20I lineup, has delivered standout performances in the tournament, including a Player of the Match innings of 89 off 42 balls against England in the semi-final. His aggressive strokeplay and composure under pressure have been pivotal in guiding India to the final against New Zealand. Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, emphasized that Samson’s improved mental toughness has been the driving force behind his success. “He’s got to be wiser with his shot selection and back his strengths,” Shastri said. “The thing with Sanju is he’s got every shot in the book, but lapses in concentration have held him back. Now, he’s toughened up mentally, and that’s why his recent results are so impressive.” The coach also noted that Samson’s ability to stay focused and execute his game has finally aligned with his natural talent, which has long been recognized by teammates and coaches. Samson’s form has been a surprise to many, especially given his inconsistent run of form in previous T20I campaigns. However, Shastri stressed that his best is yet to come, citing his role as a match-winner in India’s squad. “He’s still just 31 and a genuine match-winner,” Shastri said. “The shots he plays today—there’s class, touch, power, and brute force. It’s just unbelievable.” The coach’s comments underscored the belief that Samson’s recent performances are a culmination of his growth and the clarity of his role in the team.#icc_men_s_t20_world_cup_2026 #ravi_shastri #sanju_samson #abhishek_sharma #the_icc_review
Rohit Sharma reveals emotional reason behind Sanju Samson pep talk: 'I can feel pulse of the player' Sanju Samson has become a standout performer for India in the T20 World Cup 2026, delivering crucial innings in key matches. His unbeaten 97 against the West Indies in a must-win Super 8 game and a composed 89 in the semi-final against England secured India’s place in the final. These performances have earned him recognition as one of India’s heroes in the tournament. Rohit Sharma, India’s captain, shared an emotional insight into his approach with Samson during the tournament. Sharma revealed that he often reassures players, emphasizing the importance of patience and belief in their abilities. During a moment captured by the International Cricket Council (ICC), Sharma encouraged Samson before India’s opening match against the United States, a game in which Samson was not included in the playing XI. The clip showed Sharma comforting Samson, saying, “Don’t be disheartened. It is a long tournament. You’ll get your chance. The opportunity can come anytime.” Samson’s inclusion in the team was a topic of discussion. He did not start the tournament in the playing XI after struggling during the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. However, he eventually earned a spot during the group-stage clash against Namibia when Abhishek Sharma was ruled out due to a stomach infection. Once Abhishek recovered, Samson was again left out, highlighting the challenges of maintaining consistency in high-pressure tournaments. Sharma’s pep talk with Samson reflects his leadership style, focusing on mental resilience and trust in players’ potential. The ICC shared the moment on social media, underscoring the camaraderie and support within the team.#t20_world_cup_2026 #international_cricket_council #sanju_samson #rohit_sharma #abhishek_sharma
