"He hits like he is slapping someone" - Ajay Jadeja lauds star batter's knock in IND vs UAE Asia Cup 2025 clash

Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja lauded young opener Abhishek Sharma after his explosive knock in India's Asia Cup 2025 Group A match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai on Wednesday, September 10. 

India bundled the UAE out for just 57 runs, showing their intent from ball one. In response, Abhishek set the tone for the chase in a dynamic cameo, scoring 30 off just 16 balls, back-filling two fours and three sixes, which made sure the defending champions finished the game in just 4.3 overs, winning by nine wickets, with 15.3 overs to spare.

Speaking on Sony Sports, Jadeja spoke about Abhishek's distinct and fearless style at the crease. The former India captain said that the young player almost slaps the ball, and he does not give opposition bowlers any respect at all. "He hits like he is slapping someone. People might be thinking the Indian batting is about to start now, but they had already finished the game in 4.3 overs. And this was the first ball. There is no dignity," Jadeja said.

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Jadeja praises Gill and Abhishek's batting in India’s win over UAE

Jadeja added that Abhishek Sharma differentiates himself from most batters because he prefers off-side to on-side. "He has his own style. The world hits almost always on the on-side for boundaries and sixes. It is not like he doesn't play there, but he tends to favour offside. Most coaches teach bowlers that they should bowl on or outside the off-stump, but he plays the fastest on-axis there," he said.

Abhishek's intention to dominate was apparent when he hit Haider Ali's first ball for six over long-off for India to start their run chase. Other than Abhishek's fireworks, Shubman Gill contributed 20 off 9 balls. The youngsters put on a 48-run opening partnership in just 3.5 overs before Abhishek was dismissed. Suryakumar Yadav (7* off 2) joined Gill to finish their run chase.

Jadeja added that this game was extra special for both Abhishek and Gill as they have grown up playing together. “Growing up, you are a nuisance in your city, smashing your school teams for enjoyment. They have done it at the international cricket level, even if it is against the UAE. They would have envisioned themselves batting together and finishing games like this. This match would be memorable for them," Jadeja said.

With India launching their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in such a dominating manner, Abhishek Sharma's fearless knock highlighted, once again, the potential he has for the future.