Abhishek Sharma’s knock against Pakistan was a response to aggression
By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 22, 2025 | 05:24 am
**Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 74 powers India to six-wicket Asia Cup win over Pakistan**
After his blistering 74 off just 39 balls helped India secure a six-wicket victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super Fours clash, Abhishek Sharma revealed that his innings was a response to Pakistan’s aggressive approach on the field.
### The story behind the innings
The ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan have spilled over into their on-field conduct, intensifying the rivalry. Abhishek’s performance at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium stood out as a strong rebuttal to the rival team’s aggression.
### Match reaction: Abhishek on his match-winning knock
Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Abhishek shared, “The way they were coming at us without any reason, I didn’t like it at all.” He added that his innings was his way of answering that aggression. “I just wanted to deliver for my team,” he said, explaining his mindset during the high-stakes match.
### Teamwork: A friendship powering a crucial partnership
A solid partnership between childhood friends Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill was key to India’s chase. The duo, who have been friends since their Under-14 days, shared a rapid 105-run stand off just 59 balls, giving India a flying start chasing 172.
“We’ve been playing since our school days, so we enjoy each other’s company really well,” Abhishek noted about their on-field chemistry.
### Batting approach: High-risk style paying dividends
Abhishek’s innings was marked by aggressive strokeplay, including six fours and five sixes, nearly sealing the game single-handedly. He began with a first-ball six off Shaheen Afridi, surpassing his boundary off Afridi in last week’s group-stage encounter where he hit a first-ball four.
“Playing like this is very important for the team, but it requires strong support from the captain and coach,” Abhishek commented on his high-risk batting philosophy.
### Game strategy: Captain Suryakumar Yadav praises team’s character
India overcame a shaky start to restrict Pakistan to 171, with the bowlers conceding just 80 runs in the last 10 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav praised his team’s composure and character following the intense first innings.
“The way the boys are stepping up in every game, showing character, it’s making my job really easy,” Suryakumar said.
### Player appreciation: Highlights from India’s win
Suryakumar also lauded the “fire and ice combination” of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, emphasizing how Abhishek’s aggressive style complements Gill’s steadiness. “Their partnership was crucial in giving us a strong base for victory,” he added.
Despite Jasprit Bumrah having an off day with the ball, all-rounder Shivam Dube made a valuable contribution with impressive bowling figures of 2/33 in four overs, helping India clinch the win.
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India’s thrilling triumph over Pakistan not only showcased exceptional individual performances but also the resilience and unity within the team — a promising sign for the remainder of the Asia Cup.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/didn-t-like-pakistan-coming-at-us-abhishek-sharma/story
