India’s opener Abhishek Sharma drew attention for an unexpected reason during Wednesday’s T20 World Cup group-stage match against the Netherlands. He stepped onto the field not in his usual jersey, but in teammate Mohammed Siraj’s kit, which surprised fans and commentators.
After captain Suryakumar Yadav decided to bat first, Abhishek took a little longer to get ready. He was initially spotted wearing Arshdeep Singh’s jersey before quickly switching to Siraj’s. Commentators Nasser Hussain and Sunil Gavaskar speculated that he might have forgotten his jersey back at the hotel.
Social media quickly buzzed with speculation. Some fans, recalling that he had scoreless innings against the USA and Pakistan, wondered if the change was an attempt to break a bad streak.
Unfortunately for Abhishek, the switch did not help, as he was out for a third straight duck, this time falling to off-spin. Netherlands spinner Aryan Dutt followed a clear strategy, restricting his movement with deliveries clocked at 96.3 kph and 96.4 kph before unleashing a quicker 99 kph slider targeting middle and leg stump. Abhishek swung for a pull shot but was bowled, resembling his previous dismissal against Pakistan.
Pakistan coach Mike Hesson earlier mentioned that his team had spent significant time planning for that wicket, a strategy the Netherlands executed successfully. Against the USA, Abhishek was also dismissed due to sharp fielding.
Despite Abhishek’s early exit, India recovered well, finishing their innings with a strong total of 193. Shivam Dube played a crucial role, scoring a brilliant half-century, while Hardik Pandya added significant runs at the end.
In response, the Netherlands put up a fight but fell short, ending their innings at 176. India clinched a 17-run victory, concluding their group stage campaign with yet another win.
