{
  "id": 13872877,
  "title": "Abhishek Sharma: ‘I want my preparation in practice to make me uncomfortable’",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/12/abhishek-sharma-i-want-my-preparation-in-practice-to-make-me",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-12T04:28:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express",
    "slug": "the-indian-express",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/abhishek-sharma-preparation-india-west-indies-3rd-t20i-indore-10917484/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "India's Abhishek Sharma, a consistent left-handed batsman, is not only an aggressive batsman but also a strategic one. Before stepping onto the pitch, the 25-year-old cricketer meticulously studies his opponents' plans and prepares countermeasures. This approach was evident in his recent performance, where he scored 69 runs off 30 balls against West Indies in Indore. Sharma's innings, which included a half-century in just 18 balls, showcased his ability to adapt to different bowling strategies.\n\nSharma's pre-match preparations are a key factor in his batting success. He believes that preparation is crucial to maintaining his aggressive style of play. \"Preparation is really important,\" he said in a post-match press conference. \"If I want to continue playing like this and utilize the powerplay, as the team wants me to, preparation really matters.\" Sharma tailors his preparation based on the team and bowlers he faces, ensuring he is ready for all potential plans. He often practices in uncomfortable situations to avoid surprises during actual matches.\n\nWhen Sharma faced the West Indies, he found scoring options on the off side, making it difficult for the off-spinner Roston Chase, who had dismissed him in previous matches. He exploited the gaps created by the field placement, rather than relying solely on his power through the leg side. Sharma's focus is not just on hitting sixes, but rather on converting an over into a significant contribution for his team. He said, \"It’s not about hitting sixes. It’s about getting that big over whenever you can. Whether it’s in the powerplay, the first or second over, or any other over, we try to get that big over in between.\"",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [
    "Abhishek Sharma, 25, meticulously studies opponents' strategies",
    "Prefers adapting aggressive style, not just hitting sixes",
    "Practices in uncomfortable situations to avoid match surprises"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Times of India",
        "title": "‘Plan B’ against Abhishek Sharma revealed! India star says he knew WI's strategy",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/12/plan-b-against-abhishek-sharma-revealed-india-star-says-he-knew-wis",
        "published": "2026-10-12T05:36:22.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}