Harbhajan\u2019s comments came after Abhishek\u2019s record-breaking performance in India\u2019s 150-run victory over England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday, where he smashed India's second-fastest T20I century, reaching the landmark in just 37 balls.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Abhishek\u2019s power-hitting performance was nothing short of sensational, as he hit 13 sixes \u2014 the most by an Indian batter in a T20I innings \u2014 to help India post a commanding total of 247 runs. His knock sent England\u2019s bowlers into a tailspin, with the visitors eventually being bowled out for 97 in just 10.3 overs, handing India a dominant win.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, Harbhajan Singh, who has seen Abhishek\u2019s growth from an early stage in his career, emphasized that the young batter\u2019s bowling skills have huge untapped potential that could make him a more valuable all-rounder for the team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Abhishek has made his mark as a dynamic batter, Harbhajan believes that he could take his game to the next level by investing more time and effort into his bowling.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"I want to see Abhishek bowl a bit more. He is a very good bowler. When I saw him early in his career, I noticed his seam position was excellent. However, he doesn\u2019t put as much effort into his bowling as he does into his batting,\" Harbhajan said on the sidelines of ILT20.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"Every time he meets me, I remind him\u2014 even now\u2014 that we need to talk about his bowling first. Batting is his first love, and he will continue to excel at it. But he can certainly work more on his bowling. He possesses all the qualities of a good left-arm spinner.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite his remarkable batting performances, Abhishek\u2019s bowling has also shown promise. The left-arm spinner has taken six wickets in his T20I career so far, with an economy rate of just under 6 in his 19 overs. His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball is in line with India\u2019s approach under Gautam Gambhir\u2019s coaching, where the team has focused on grooming batters who can also contribute with the ball.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Harbhajan also took the opportunity to reflect on Abhishek\u2019s journey, particularly his fearless attitude, which was evident from his early days in domestic cricket.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Abhishek made his Ranji Trophy debut for Punjab in 2017 under Harbhajan\u2019s captaincy, and even at the age of 17, his fearless approach to batting was clear.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"He was fearless from the start. He doesn\u2019t concern himself with the bowler\u2019s reputation\u2014if the ball is in his arc, he will go for the shot,\" Harbhajan recalled.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"I remember a four-day game where the mid-wicket was on the boundary and a left-arm spinner was bowling. But Abhishek stepped out and hit a six. I didn\u2019t want to change him. He was naturally fearless, and if I could help him improve, I was always willing.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
That match saw Abhishek score 94 runs on debut, and he ended the season with 202 runs in just four matches\u2014a promising start that showcased his potential as an aggressive batter. Harbhajan recalled how he admired Abhishek\u2019s natural fearlessness and how, as a mentor, he could only help refine those instincts rather than change them.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Abhishek\u2019s contribution to the recent five-match T20I series against England was monumental. He finished as the leading run-scorer, amassing an impressive 279 runs, nearly doubling the tally of second-placed Jos Buttler. His performances were a blend of consistency and explosive power, and his all-round contribution helped India dominate the series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
That match saw Abhishek score 94 runs on debut, and he ended the season with 202 runs in just four matches\u2014a promising start that showcased his potential as an aggressive batter. Harbhajan recalled how he admired Abhishek\u2019s natural fearlessness and how, as a mentor, he could only help refine those instincts rather than change them.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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