Watch: Abhishek Sharma takes close look at Ahmedabad pitch ahead of IND vs SA T20 World Cup 2026 match

Abhishek Sharma is desperate to bounce back from the ongoing run drought. After playing three matches in the T20 World Cup 2026, the opener has yet to register his first run. In three matches, which were against the United States, Pakistan, and the Netherlands, he had returned with three consecutive ducks. 

India cricket fans and the team management have high hopes for the batter. The stage is all set for the round of eight, where Sharma should try to bat according to his caliber. On Sunday, February 22, India will face South Africa for match number 43 of the tournament at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The match will be crucial for both of the teams, as the result can prove decisive in shaping the semi-finals.

Ahead of India's clash with South Africa, Abhishek Sharma was spotted in Ahmedabad stadium, examining the pitch. He was on his knees to take a close look at the surface. Despite three ducks in three matches, it is expected to see the batter taking guards against the Proteas as well.

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 As the Indian team management has a lot of faith in the southpaw, he can gain another chance to revive his form. Before India's opening match of the T20 World Cup, the batter's health deteriorated because of an upset stomach, accompanied by high fever and severe weight loss. Because of health-related issues, he missed the match against Namibia as well.

Watch — Abhishek Sharma monitoring the pitch in Ahmedabad ahead of their next match against South Africa 

Opposing teams also looked well prepared for the batter. Whether it was the United States, Pakistan, or the Netherlands, they dismissed Abhishek Sharma utilizing their plans properly. The pitch in Ahmedabad in general offers a batting-friendly pitch, which can be beneficial for Sharma to regain his momentum.

Against South Africa, he may have to face some of the best pacers in the business, like Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, or Kagiso Rabada.