How do you dismiss Abhishek Sharma? Misbah-ul-Haq’s two-point blueprint ahead of IND vs PAK Super Four

Saurav Goyal

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How do you dismiss Abhishek Sharma? Misbah-ul-Haq’s two-point blueprint ahead of IND vs PAK Super Four image

(getty)

Asia Cup 2025 has reached its Super Four stage and India vs Pakistan is the most awaited clash.

One thing everyone is talking about is India’s young opener Abhishek Sharma. He just comes at the new ball without fear and hits hard.

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His aggressive batting has troubled Pakistan bowlers, and everyone is asking: how can Pakistan get him out early?

Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq has weighed in, offering both praise for Abhishek and advice on strategies to dismiss him.

Why is Abhishek Sharma such a threat?

Abhishek has been explosive for India this tournament. In three matches, he faced 44 balls and scored 99 runs at a strike rate of 225.

Against Pakistan, he showed his power immediately as he hit Shaheen Afridi for a boundary first ball and following it with a six over the off side.

Misbah noted that Abhishek’s starts take pressure off the rest of the team and make it easier for other batsmen to perform.

“The kind of starts he gives relaxes the team, takes the pressure off the rest of the batsmen. The best thing about him is that he is good against all types of bowling – pace or spin. Also, off side and on side, he plays everywhere. He can hit boundaries anywhere,” Misbah told PTV Sports.

According to Misbah, what makes Abhishek special is his adaptability. His ability to dominate bowlers in any situation makes him India’s main weapon.

MORE: Asia Cup 2025 format: Explaining group stage and Super Four format for Asia Cup T20 tournament

How can Pakistan dismiss him early? Misbah’s two-point plan

Misbah suggested two methods for Pakistan bowlers. First, pace bowlers should focus on hitting the stumps from a good length, making the ball come into him slightly. This, he says, is the main chance to get him out.

“You have to bowl at the stumps at him, get the ball to come in to him a bit from a good length. That’s the only chance to dismiss him," Misbah said.

Second, if the pitch helps spinners, Pakistan can try an off-spinner like Saim Ayub. Misbah said that a tacky pitch could allow spinners to get the ball to stick and create chances.

 “Or try an off-spinner, if the pitch is like that where the ball is getting stuck. Like Saim Ayub,” he added.

Pakistan must aim for wickets rather than just defending runs, as removing Abhishek early can shift momentum in Pakistan’s favor.

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Saurav Goyal

Saurav Goyal is a Content Producer at the Sporting News with over two years of experience in covering cricket. An avid cricket fan for more than two decades, his passion for the game led him to writing. Since then, he’s been delivering the latest news and engaging content to keep cricket fans informed and entertained.