‘Lucky I Wasn’t Born in This Era’ – Shoaib Akhtar on Abhishek Sharma

India National Cricket Team is playing all their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai under the hybrid model. Due to political tensions and safety concerns, they have refused to travel to Pakistan for the ICC event. Meanwhile, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is also in Dubai for commentary and other commitments.

Recently, Shoaib Akhtar met India’s young batting sensation, Abhishek Sharma, and shared a video with him. In the video, the legendary pacer praised Abhishek’s talent and even said that he is lucky not to be born in this era, as facing such a player would have been a tough challenge.

Here’s What Shoaib Akhtar said:

“I am glad that I wasn’t born in this era because look at this talent. I recently saw his fantastic hundred, and it was truly amazing. I also gave him some advice—never leave your strengths, befriend people who are better than you, and learn from them. I wish him all the best.”

Just ran into an exceptional talent Abhishek Sharma here in Dubai. He'll do wonders in years to come. pic.twitter.com/8u6RNMZooS

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) February 22, 2025

Abhishek Sharma’s Rising Stardom

Abhishek Sharma made his T20 International debut for India on July 6, 2024, against Zimbabwe. Just a day later, on July 7, he smashed a century, scoring exactly 100 runs. This made him the fastest Indian to score a T20I century in terms of innings played.

As of February 2025, Abhishek has already hit two centuries in T20Is. His highest score came against England on February 2, 2025, at Wankhede Stadium, where he smashed 135 runs. In that match, he displayed his aggressive batting style, hitting 13 sixes and 7 fours.

Receiving praise from a cricket legend like Shoaib Akhtar is a big moment for Abhishek Sharma. With his fearless batting and powerful stroke play, he has already made a name for himself in international cricket. His journey is just beginning, and he is expected to achieve even greater heights in the future.