Misbah-ul-Haq Full of Praise for Abhishek Sharma’s Match-Winning Knock vs Pakistan

Former Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq has heaped praise on Abhishek Sharma after the young Indian opener’s stunning knock in the Super 4 clash of the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai.

Chasing 172, Abhishek lit up the Dubai International Stadium with a brilliant 74 off just 39 balls. He tore into Pakistan’s pace attack of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, as well as spinner Abrar Ahmed, to set the tone for India’s six-wicket win on Sunday, September 21.

Misbah was particularly impressed with Abhishek’s calmness in such a high-pressure game. “The skill level and composure he displayed were remarkable. Even in his first match against Pakistan, he was not under pressure. Looked like he was playing in the nets,” he said.

The former captain pointed out how Abhishek didn’t just score runs but also managed to put Pakistan’s main bowlers under pressure. “What stands out is that he always looks to take on the main bowlers, putting them under pressure. That’s what really unsettles the opposition,” Misbah added.

Explaining Abhishek’s approach, Misbah noted that it wasn’t just blind hitting. “The key weapon for a fast bowler is the hard length. However, if there’s width, you get punished. Shaheen attempted those hard lengths, and Abhishek respected them. But whenever the ball was short or full, he smashed it,” he said.