'Keep that in mind': Ex-India legend passes on Sunil Gavaskar's advice to Abhishek Sharma

After a scintillating performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super 4s clash on Sunday, Abhishek Sharma received some priceless advice from one of India’s greatest batsmen. The young opener starred with a blistering 74 off 39 balls, striking six fours and five sixes, helping India chase down the target with six wickets in hand and seven balls to spare.

In a video that has gone viral since the match, former India opener Virender Sehwag was seen speaking to Abhishek after his match-winning knock. Sehwag reminded the youngster about the importance of converting good starts into big scores. He urged Abhishek to turn innings of 70 or 80 into a hundred whenever he finds himself in rhythm at the crease. Sehwag shared that the advice was originally given to him by Sunil Gavaskar, who wanted him to avoid the regret of falling short of centuries during his career.


Click here to watch the video.

“Many congratulations. I would say whenever you reach seventy, don’t miss out on converting it into a hundred. These opportunities don’t come again and again. On the day that it’s your day, when you’re batting well, try to finish unbeaten. That’s always better. Keep that in mind,” Sehwag told the young opener.

The conversation also took a lighter turn when Gaurav Kapur joked that this advice seemed like something Abhishek’s guru, Yuvraj Singh, would give him. Abhishek revealed that Yuvraj often encourages him to let other players enjoy their moments on the field. “That’s 100 percent certain. He always says, after hitting a six, give the other guy a chance to hit too. I’m working on that,” said Abhishek with a smile.

Abhishek has already notched up two hundreds in T20Is and is quickly making a name for himself in the shorter format. India will now turn their attention to their next Super 4s clash against Bangladesh on September 24, hoping the young opener can continue his red-hot form.

Catch Lovlina Borgohain's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 5. Watch Here