India vs Australia T20I: Former Coach Predicts Abhishek Sharma's Aggression Will Decimate Josh Hazlewood's Form

The anticipation for the five-match Twenty20 International series between India and Australia has intensified, with expert opinion suggesting a high-stakes top-order battle. Former India batting coach and noted analyst Abhishek Nayar has put forward a bold prediction, asserting that the destructive form of India's left-handed opener, Abhishek Sharma, will be the key factor in neutralizing the recent stellar performance of Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood.

Hazlewood proved to be a formidable adversary during the preceding One Day International series, consistently challenging the Indian top order by extracting significant bounce and movement on pitches in Perth and Adelaide. However, Nayar believes the shift to the T20 format, combined with Sharma’s aggressive approach, will entirely change the dynamic.

Sharma enters the T20I series riding a wave of sensational form, having recently concluded the Asia Cup 2025 as the highest run-scorer and a crucial architect of India's undefeated run to the title. His performance in the Indian Premier League since 2024 has led to a meteoric rise, culminating in his current status as the world's No. 1 T20I batter.

The Power of Fearless Batting

Analyzing the impending match-up, the former coach elaborated on Sharma's unique impact, particularly during the fielding restrictions of the Powerplay. Nayar suggested that the young batter possesses the ability to instantly turn the momentum of a contest.

"If Abhishek Sharma finds his rhythm, it is Hazlewood who will find himself out of form," Nayar stated during his pre-game commentary. "He is known for his aggressive intent, often looking to strike a boundary or a maximum on the very first ball he faces. By instilling fear in the opposition during the Powerplay, that pressure carries through the rest of the innings."

The analyst estimated that if the left-hander bats through the first six overs, India could score between 60 and 80 runs, a blistering rate that simultaneously eases pressure on his partner and drastically mounts it on the opposition’s bowling unit.

Acknowledging Hazlewood's recent exceptional rhythm and ability to generate bounce, Nayar recognized the contest as a significant test for the young Indian batter. Yet, he expressed confidence, noting that Sharma has garnered sufficient high-level experience from both the IPL and recent international tours.

Nayar concluded by highlighting Sharma’s key asset: his "fearless mindset." The opener is expected to be highly motivated to convert his domestic and regional success into global recognition on Australian soil, an achievement Nayar described as immensely satisfying and a major step in earning international respect. The five-match series is set to commence with the opening T20I in the capital city of Canberra on October 29.