'International cricket will expose you': Mohammad Amir tears into Abhishek Sharma again
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Veteran Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has issued a strong critique of India’s opening batter Abhishek Sharma, highlighting his struggles during the T20 World Cup 2026. Sharma faced three consecutive ducks in as many matches, including being dismissed by Aryan Dutt on just eight deliveries across three games. This performance not only tied him with Ashish Nehra for the most ducks by an Indian in T20 World Cups but also drew Amir’s attention to his technical weaknesses. Speaking on a Pakistani cricket show, Amir compared Sharma’s early struggles to those of Pakistan’s Saim Ayub during his debut PSL campaigns, emphasizing how young batters are quickly exposed by experienced bowlers who target their vulnerabilities.
Amir pointed out that Sharma’s reliance on hitting big shots limits his ability to adapt under pressure. He stressed the importance of developing a balanced game, particularly on the off side, to avoid being dismissed by quality bowlers like Salman Agha and Aryan Dutt. Amir’s comments underscored the harsh realities of international cricket, where players must quickly improve or risk being pushed out of their comfort zones.
The crux of Amir’s argument lies in the challenges faced by young batters on the global stage. He highlighted how experienced bowlers like himself and others can exploit technical flaws, making it essential for players to refine their skills early in their careers. This perspective adds depth to the discussion about Sharma’s struggles, linking them to broader lessons for cricketers at any level.
For cricket enthusiasts, Amir’s critique offers valuable insights into the mental and technical demands of international cricket. His observations not only explain why Sharma is struggling but also provide a roadmap for improvement. As India prepares for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup, fans will be closely watching whether Sharma can turn things around and prove Amir’s analysis wrong.
Ultimately, Amir’s comments serve as a reminder of the high stakes involved in global cricket competitions. They also highlight the importance of adaptability and skill refinement for young players aiming to make it at the highest level. With India hoping for Sharma’s redemption, Amir’s words add another layer of anticipation to the tournament’s unfolding drama.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026