Legendary India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh gave his mentee Abhishek Sharma a special birthday surprise on Friday, September 4, as the explosive left-hander turned 26. Yuvraj shared a light-hearted video on social media to celebrate the occasion while praising Abhishek for the person and leader he has developed into. The two-time World Cup winner has played a significant role in Abhishek Sharma’s development over the years. His guidance has helped the young left-hander establish himself as one of India’s most dangerous T20I batters.
Abhishek’s rise has now taken him to the No. 1 position in the T20I batting rankings. Yuvraj shared the special birthday post on Instagram, giving fans another glimpse into the close relationship between the former India star and his mentee. The funny video captured their unique bond, with Yuvraj taking on the role of a strict coach.
In the clip, Yuvraj warned Abhishek against playing careless shots and even made the youngster perform sit-ups as punishment for his mistakes. Abhishek was seen holding his ears while completing the punishment and promising not to attempt a big shot from the very first delivery. The video also included several memorable moments from their time together. One of them came during Wimbledon, where Yuvraj, Abhishek and Sanju Samson were seen watching the action from the stands.
ALSO READ: India vs Japan: Historic Game to Mark 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations
During the memorable outing, Yuvraj asked Abhishek what he wanted while they watched the match. The young batter gave a simple answer, saying that he wanted Yuvraj’s blessings. The former India all-rounder responded warmly, highlighting the strong bond they share.
Yuvraj Singh also used the birthday message to praise Abhishek’s character and leadership qualities. “Sir Abhishek, it’s your birthday. What an auspicious day. Love the person you have become—sharing and caring for those around you and being a leader! Always learning from your failures and willing to put in more hard work each time! Wishing you a year of runs and tons! Lots of love always,” Yuvraj wrote.
View this post on Instagram
Abhishek Sharmahas already made a significant impact in international cricket. In 55 T20I innings, the left-handed opener has scored 1,629 runs at an impressive strike rate of 187.24, including two centuries and 11 fifties.
He also holds the distinction of scoring the second-fastest T20I century by an Indian batter. Abhishek reached his hundred in just 37 balls against England last year, further highlighting his remarkable power-hitting ability. However, his recent form has been inconsistent. Across his last 10 innings in Ireland, England and Zimbabwe, Abhishek has managed only one fifty and has been dismissed for single-digit scores in each of his last four innings.
ALSO READ: Aakash Chopra Names Shubman Gill In His Next-Gen Fab 4 Of World Cricket
The 26-year-old will next feature in India’s three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi. The series provides Abhishek with another opportunity to rediscover his rhythm and demonstrate why he remains one of India’s most exciting T20 batting talents.
