Abhishek Sharma Suffers Third Consecutive Duck in T20 World Cup 2026

Abhishek Sharma’s Struggles Continue as Aryan Dutt Strikes Early in Ahmedabad Clash

India’s young opener Abhishek Sharma is enduring a nightmare run in the T20 World Cup 2026 after registering his third consecutive duck of the tournament. The left-handed batter failed to open his account during India’s final Group A clash against the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Abhishek Sharma’s lean patch has now become one of the biggest talking points of India’s campaign. Despite high expectations, the explosive opener is yet to score a single run in the tournament, having faced eight deliveries across matches.

Aryan Dutt Outsmarts Abhishek Sharma in the First Over

India opted to bat first in the crucial encounter, but Abhishek Sharma’s outing lasted only a few balls. Netherlands spinner Aryan Dutt executed a well-thought-out plan to dismiss the Indian opener in the very first over.

Dutt began with a flatter delivery at 95.9 kph, drifting it into the left-hander. Abhishek stayed leg-side and cautiously pushed it towards cover. The next ball was quicker and again angled in, restricting the batter’s scoring options.

With uncertainty creeping in, Dutt delivered the decisive blow. He fired one through with extra pace. Expecting width and bounce, Abhishek shaped for the pull shot. However, the ball wasn’t short enough. It skidded sharply off the surface, rushed onto him, beat the bat, and crashed into the stumps.

It was a classic setup — patience, variation, and precision — leaving Abhishek Sharma stunned once again.

Abhishek Sharma Equals Unwanted T20I Record

With this dismissal, Abhishek Sharma recorded his fifth duck in T20Is in 2026, equalling an unwanted Indian record previously held by Sanju Samson for the most ducks by an Indian batter in a calendar year.

For a player known for aggressive stroke play and fearless intent, this statistic paints a concerning picture. Abhishek Sharma has now failed in:

• Opening match vs USA
• Group clash vs Pakistan
• Group match vs Netherlands

He missed the Namibia fixture due to illness but returned without regaining rhythm.

Abhishek Sharma’s T20 World Cup 2026 Campaign So Far

Abhishek Sharma’s troubles began in India’s opening game against the United States at the Wankhede Stadium, where he was dismissed by fast bowler Ali Khan.

After being hospitalized with a stomach-related illness and missing the Namibia game, he returned for the high-voltage clash against Pakistan. However, he was dismissed by Salman Agha while attempting an ambitious lofted shot straight down the ground.

The Netherlands game was expected to be a confidence booster, but instead, Abhishek Sharma’s struggles deepened.

Abhishek Sharma’s Overall T20I Numbers in 2026

Despite the poor World Cup run, Abhishek Sharma’s overall T20I numbers this year reflect mixed fortunes.

• Matches: 8
• Runs: 182
• Average: 26
• Highest Score: 84

His best knock of 84 came against New Zealand in Nagpur during the bilateral series earlier this year. However, he also registered two ducks in Raipur and Visakhapatnam during the same series.

The contrast between his explosive 84 and repeated failures highlights the inconsistency that has defined Abhishek Sharma’s 2026 campaign.

Can Abhishek Sharma Bounce Back in the Super 8?

India will next face South Africa in their first Super 8 fixture on February 22 in Ahmedabad. With knockout pressure mounting, Abhishek Sharma’s form could become a critical factor for India’s top order stability.

The team management now faces a tough decision:

• Persist with Abhishek Sharma and back his attacking instincts
• Or reconsider combinations for the crucial Super 8 stage

Given his natural ability and match-winning potential, the Indian camp is likely to show faith. However, the opener must quickly rediscover his rhythm.

Why Abhishek Sharma’s Form Matters for India

Abhishek Sharma plays a crucial role as an aggressive opener who can provide rapid starts in the powerplay. In modern T20 cricket, momentum in the first six overs often defines the match outcome.

His inability to get off the mark has:

• Increased pressure on the middle order
• Slowed India’s powerplay scoring rate
• Allowed opposition bowlers early control

If India aim to lift the T20 World Cup 2026 trophy, Abhishek Sharma regaining form is essential.

Final Thoughts on Abhishek Sharma’s Struggles

The T20 World Cup 2026 has so far been a tournament to forget for Abhishek Sharma. Three consecutive ducks, five ducks in the calendar year, and mounting pressure have placed him under intense scrutiny.

However, cricket is a game of quick turnarounds. One impactful innings in the Super 8 could completely rewrite his narrative.

All eyes will now be on Abhishek Sharma when India steps onto the field against South Africa. Will he silence critics and bounce back in style? Or will his difficult run continue?

The next match could define not only India’s campaign but also Abhishek Sharma’s confidence heading into the knockout stages.

Read More India vs Netherlands – T20 World Cup 2026, Match 36 | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

FAQ

Q1: How many ducks has Abhishek Sharma scored in T20 World Cup 2026?

Abhishek Sharma has scored three consecutive ducks in the tournament.

Q2: Who dismissed Abhishek Sharma against Netherlands?

Aryan Dutt dismissed Abhishek Sharma in the first over of the match.

Q3: What is Abhishek Sharma’s highest score in 2026?

His highest score this year is 84 against New Zealand.