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A Specific Plan Against...? How Abhishek Sharma Can Overcome His Struggle And Fire vs GT

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Abhishek Sharma for SRH [Source: @Adarsh_Jha_07/x.com]Abhishek Sharma for SRH [Source: @Adarsh_Jha_07/x.com]

Abhishek Sharma was one of the breakout stars of IPL 2024, smashing 484 runs at a blistering strike rate of 195.16. Fast forward to 2025, and the Sunrisers Hyderabad opener has managed just 33 runs in four matches at a significantly reduced strike rate of 137.50. What explains this dramatic decline?

The Numbers Tell the Story

A statistical comparison reveals the extent of his struggles:

Season
Matches
Runs
SR
Avg
Boundary %
202416484195.1632.2731.45%
2025433137.5011.0025.00%

The most alarming statistic is Abhishek's complete inability to clear the boundary in 2025 – zero sixes compared to the 42 he hammered last season.

Technical Changes and Bowling Plans

Analysis of ball-by-ball data suggests two key factors behind Abhishek's decline:

Shot Selection Transformation: His most productive shots from 2024 – particularly the lofted on-drive (SR: 405.00) and stepping down to spinners (SR: 533.33) – have disappeared from his arsenal in 2025.

Opposition Targeting Weaknesses: Bowlers have identified his vulnerability against good length deliveries outside off stump. His strike rate against this line-length combination has dropped by 26.97%, with two of his three dismissals coming in this area.

Match Progression Reveals Confidence Crisis

Abhishek's 2025 campaign started promisingly with 24 runs against Rajasthan Royals but has deteriorated with each match:

Match
Opponent
Score
SR
1Rajasthan Royals24(11)218.18
2Lucknow Super Giants6(6)100.00
3Delhi Capitals1(1)100.00
4Kolkata Knight Riders2(6)33.33

This pattern suggests a crisis of confidence affecting his aggressive approach.

The Path Forward

For Abhishek to regain his 2024 form, he needs to return to the technical foundations that made him successful. This includes:

  • Reincorporating his lofted shots, particularly against spinners
  • Developing a specific plan against good length deliveries outside off stump

With Sunrisers Hyderabad winning just one of four matches with him in the lineup, Abhishek's return to form isn't just personal – it's essential for his team's campaign.