NZ bowlers look for ways to halt Abhishek’s run

For the last twoyears, Abhishek Sharma has been the storm.

- Rasesh Mandani

VISAKHAPATNAM: For the last two years, Abhishek Sharma has been the storm. And, given the kind of talent available in Indian cricket, it takes some ability to be able to do that.

For his 152 runs in the T20 series against New Zealand, the left-handed opener has batted at a strike rate of 271. While making room to meet balls at impossible angles, the left-hander has been able to access the off side for maximum impact. After stepping out of the crease, he has swung so hard, that bowlers have lost their way. The bowlers have been left dazed and confused.

"Sorry, Abhishek Sharma? I am not aware of him," Jacob Oram, New Zealand bowling coach, said in jest during his prematch chat in Visakhapatnam.

The mayhem caused by Abhishek Sharma has dominated discussions in the New Zealand change room.

"Its very difficult, look at his strike rate. It's very difficult to work out A, a hole in his game, B to execute," Oram said. "While you appreciate how hard it is, it's about still finding little things that we (bowlers) can improve.