India vs England: Abhishek Sharma Falls For 9 As Off-Spin Woes Continue; Fans Claim India Playing With ‘10 Players’

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Mumbai, March 5: India opener Abhishek Sharma endured another disappointing outing in the T20 World Cup 2026, falling cheaply during the semi-final against England at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday (March 5). The left-handed batter managed just 9 runs off 7 balls, continuing a worrying trend of dismissals against off-spin in the tournament.

Under pressure to deliver in his debut T20 World Cup campaign, Abhishek once again struggled against spin bowling and became the victim of England's part-time off-spinner Will Jacks, who was introduced by captain Harry Brook in the second over of the innings.

Will Jacks Strikes Early For England

Despite beginning the over positively with two boundaries in the first five deliveries, Abhishek's attempt to dominate the spinner proved costly. On the final ball of the over, Jacks slowed the delivery to 85.4 kph, drifting it into the batter.

Abhishek charged down the track and backed away slightly while attempting an aerial flick, but the shot came off the bottom of the bat. Phil Salt, positioned at deep midwicket, moved forward and completed a comfortable catch.

Netizens Slam Abhishek Sharma for Underwhelming Show

The dismissal left India 20/1 after two overs, giving England an early breakthrough in the crucial knockout clash.

Soon after the 25-year-old's dismissal, users on micro-blogging site X, formerly known as Twitter, criticised the youngster for letting the opportunities slip and putting his team in a disadvantageous position. Some even claimed that it is high time the team management drops him from the squad.

Struggles Against Off-Spin Continue

Abhishek's wicket highlighted his ongoing issues against off-spin during the tournament. Across five innings in the T20 World Cup 2026, the Punjab batter has struggled to dominate the matchup.

Abhishek Sharma vs Off-Spin In T20 World Cup 2026

The numbers underline a pattern that opposition teams have begun to exploit, frequently using off-spinners early in the innings to target the aggressive left-hander.

Pressure Mounting On Young Opener

Abhishek entered the tournament with high expectations following his reputation as an explosive T20 batter. However, the T20 World Cup semi-final dismissal adds to a series of low scores that have drawn scrutiny over his performances on the global stage.

With India chasing a place in the T20 World Cup 2026 final, the team will now rely on the middle order to stabilise the innings after the early setback.