Former India batter Ambati Rayudu has publicly urged the Indian team management to consider resting Abhishek Sharma for the upcoming T20 World Cup final against South Africa. Rayudu’s comments, made public on Wednesday, suggest a strategic decision to shield the young player from the immense pressure of a major final, even though Sharma is currently a traveling reserve and has not played a match in the tournament.

Speaking to Star Sports, Rayudu emphasized the need to "give him a break" and allow him to observe from the sidelines. He stated, "He's been playing so much cricket, there's so much pressure. Let him sit out. Let him watch. Let him play his next IPL. And let him come back stronger." Rayudu cautioned against placing Sharma directly into a high-stakes final, deeming it "not fair on him" given the circumstances.

Abhishek Sharma has had a notable run in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL) preceding the T20 World Cup.

  • During IPL 2024, Sharma, representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, scored 484 runs in 16 matches.
  • His average for the season stood at 32.26, with an impressive strike rate of 204.22.
  • He also displayed strong form in a T20 World Cup warm-up match against Bangladesh, scoring 46 runs off 28 deliveries.

Despite his strong performances, Sharma has remained a traveling reserve for the Indian squad throughout the T20 World Cup 2024 and is yet to make his debut in the main tournament. Rayudu suggested an alternative should the team consider a left-handed option, advocating for Sanju Samson. "If you want to play a left-hander, play Sanju Samson, he's in brilliant form. He's been performing for so many years for the Indian team," Rayudu added.

The Indian team, led by Captain Rohit Sharma, is scheduled to face South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final on Saturday, June 29, 2024. The decisive match will be held at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. The final decision regarding team selection and playing XI will rest with the team management and coaching staff in the days leading up to the highly anticipated encounter.