'A Phenomenon': Atul Wassan Hails Abhishek Sharma's Brutal Record Ton
Former India cricketer Atul Wassan calls Abhishek Sharma a phenomenon after his blistering 35-ball century against New Zealand in Wellington.
Former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan has described opener Abhishek Sharma as a "phenomenon" following a breathtaking batting display that left New Zealand stunned. In the third T20I at Wellington's Henry Stadium, the left-handed batter dismantled the bowling attack to smash a record-breaking century in just 35 balls, propelling India to a dominant six-wicket victory and an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
A Masterclass in Fearless Cricket
Abhishek Sharma's innings was nothing short of a carnage. He finished with a staggering 113 runs off only 38 deliveries, a knock punctuated by 11 massive sixes and nine boundaries. His acceleration was frightening; he reached his half-century in a mere 15 balls before crossing the hundred-run mark in 35.
Speaking to ANI, Atul Wassan praised the batter's mental strength and clarity. He specifically credited the influence of mentor Yuvraj Singh in shaping this aggressive mindset, though he noted that Abhishek has surpassed even the fearless nature of his mentor.
"Abhishek Sharma is a phenomenon. I have never seen somebody with such clarity of thought in just going through what is in his mind," Wassan stated. "He has been mentored by Yuvraj Singh. That fearless cricket... even Yuvraj, at times when he was not in good form, used to be watchful. But this guy has got no fear."
Wassan added that such an approach signifies the growth and maturity of Indian cricket, suggesting that modern players have been given a "licence to kill" on the field.
The Rise of a Teen Prodigy
While Abhishek stole the headlines, the match also showcased the raw talent of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The youngster provided a sensational start, scoring a quickfire 45 off 19 balls. Together, the duo put New Zealand on the back foot immediately, racing to 118 without loss during the Powerplay.
Wassan urged the cricket community to protect the young talent from excessive pressure. He described Sooryavanshi as a "pure diamond" and the future of Indian cricket, emphasizing the need for proper mentoring and a focus on fitness rather than immediate results.
"Just don't go overboard when he gets runs and don't criticise when he doesn't get runs," Wassan advised, noting that superstars like Sooryavanshi and Abhishek are essential to eventually replace icons like Virat Kohli.
Match Breakdown: India's Clinical Chase
Chasing a formidable target of 199, India reached the goal in just 13.2 overs, with 40 balls to spare. The onslaught only slowed down after Matthew Fisher dismissed Sooryavanshi and Kyle Jamieson finally managed to remove Abhishek Sharma for 113.
Earlier in the game, New Zealand had posted 198/3, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten 89 off 52 balls by Daryl Mitchell. Other contributors for the hosts included Finn Allen (40 off 25) and Bevon Jacobs (39 off 23). India's bowling effort was shared among Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who took one wicket each.
Looking Ahead: The Challenge of Red Ball Cricket
Despite the T20I rout, Wassan warned against complacency. He reminded the team that New Zealand remains a dangerous opponent with immense talent, particularly in longer formats.
The former fast bowler, who played four Tests and nine ODIs for India between 1990 and 1991, believes the real test lies ahead. "If India wins in Test cricket in New Zealand, I mean that will be 10 times bigger achievement than winning this T20 series," he remarked.