Abhishek Sharma boosts ODI selection bid with Vijay Hazare prep, hits 45 sixes and bowls 40 minutes in nets

India’s T20I star Abhishek Sharma appears ready to make a strong impression in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, as highlighted during Punjab’s training session on Sunday.

Already a prominent figure in the shortest format, with his rise to the top of the ICC T20I batting rankings underscoring his impact, Abhishek is now aiming to establish himself in the 50-over game. With an ODI debut still pending, the domestic tournament could serve as a timely platform to showcase his adaptability and strengthen his case for national selection.

A PTI report noted an interesting moment from Punjab’s nets session when Abhishek walked in to bat and casually asked teammate Gaurav Chaudhary about a hypothetical field placement.

“Field kya hai?” he asked, signaling his tactical approach.

Chaudhary responded immediately: “Mid-off single saving ke liye rakkha hai” (mid-off fielder is there to stop singles).

The left-handed opener then proceeded with an intense hour-long batting session, smashing around 45 sixes at the Anantam Cricket Ground. The workout was focused on spin bowling, as he deliberately took on off-spinners, leg-spinners, and left-arm orthodox bowlers on a surface that offered sharp turn.

Abhishek also bowled left-arm spin for close to 40 minutes in the nets, showing his all-round skills.

BCCI yet to announce ODI squad vs New Zealand
While Abhishek has been named in India’s T20I squad for the series against New Zealand and the T20 World Cup, the BCCI has not yet announced the ODI squad. This leaves him a narrow window to impress selectors through strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, breaking into India’s ODI opening slots will be a challenge, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma holding their positions consistently, and Yashasvi Jaiswal recently reinforcing his case with a century against South Africa.