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Morkel Backs Abhishek Sharma Despite T20 WC Ducks, Eyes Super 8 Clash

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has voiced strong support for opener Abhishek Sharma, who has registered three consecutive ducks in the T20 World Cup group stage. Morkel stated there have been no team discussions about Sharma's place in the side, emphasizing his world-class talent. The coach expressed confidence that Sharma will deliver in the crucial Super 8 phase, noting he is hitting the ball well in practice. India is set to face South Africa, against whom Sharma has a decent record, in their first Super 8 match.

Key Points: Morkel Backs Abhishek Sharma After T20 World Cup Ducks

  • Abhishek Sharma has three consecutive ducks
  • Morkel says no discussion about dropping him
  • India faces South Africa in Super 8
  • Sharma has solid record against Proteas
2 min read

T20 WC: 'I am pretty sure he will deliver,' Morkel backs Abhishek Sharma after three consecutive ducks

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel expresses unwavering faith in opener Abhishek Sharma despite three consecutive ducks in the T20 World Cup.

"I'm pretty sure he's going to deliver, not just for the team, but also for the viewers watching the game - Morne Morkel"

Ahmedabad, Feb 20

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed strong faith in opener Abhishek Sharma, who is enduring a lean patch in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, as India gear up for their first Super 8 clash against the South Africa national cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.

The world No. 1 T20I batter is yet to open his account in the tournament. Abhishek began his campaign with a golden duck against the United States, followed by early dismissals against Pakistan and the Netherlands. On each occasion, he fell within the first two overs while attempting aggressive strokes before settling in.

The sequence has placed Abhishek alongside Ashish Nehra for the most ducks by an Indian in T20 World Cup history, highlighting a rare slump for one of India's most explosive batters.

Despite the poor run, Morkel made it clear that the team management is not concerned about Abhishek's form and that there have been no discussions regarding his place in the side. He added that the left-hander has been working hard in the nets and is striking the ball well ahead of the crucial encounter.

"Absolutely no discussion in our team group about that. Abhishek is a world-class player. So far in the tournament, fortunately, there have been guys stepping up while Abhishek hasn't been able to score the runs he would like," Morkel said at the pre-match press conference.

"But we are entering a very important phase of the World Cup now, and I'm pretty sure he's going to deliver, not just for the team, but also for the viewers watching the game, because he's entertaining and we love to see that. He's hitting the ball well in the nets; it's just about getting started and building his innings," he added.

Abhishek has featured in eight matches against South Africa, scoring 200 runs against the Proteas, including one half-century against the 2024 World Cup runners-up.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Three ducks in a World Cup is worrying, no matter how you spin it. While I appreciate the support, maybe he needs to tweak his approach slightly? Go for a few singles first instead of swinging from ball one. Just my two paise.
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Aman W
This is the problem with our fans sometimes. He's been brilliant for SRH and India. Form is temporary, class is permanent. He'll fire against SA, I can feel it! #BelieveInAbhishek
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Sarah B
Interesting to see a South African coach backing an Indian opener so strongly. Morkel seems to have a good read on his players. Hope Abhishek repays that faith on Sunday!
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Vikram M
The pressure at the Modi Stadium will be immense. But if he gets going, he can take the game away in the powerplay itself. His aggressive intent is needed, even if it comes with risk. Jai Hind!
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Karthik V
Honestly, we have options like Jaiswal waiting. Faith is good, but the Super 8s are knockout phase. Can't afford a top-order collapse. Hope the management has a Plan B ready.

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