The cricketing world was electrified when West Indian legend Chris Gayle praised the up-and-coming Abhishek Sharma for demonstrating tremendous promise in his early T20 career. After seeing Abhishek’s incredible performance in SRH’s high-octane match against Punjab Kings, Gayle said in an exclusive interview with India TV that he can surpass his historic mark of 175.
Abhishek Sharma’s Blazing Knock Sends Shockwaves Across IPL
When Sunrisers Hyderabad faced the Punjab Kings, Abhishek Sharma‘s explosive 141-run knock lit the globe on fire. Abhishek helped SRH chase down 246 runs, the second-highest run-chase in the tournament’s history, with a scorching 55-ball 141-run knock.
It was a statement knock as well as a personal accomplishment. Abhishek broke the previous mark set by KL Rahul, who scored 132* against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2020, and smashed the greatest innings ever by an Indian player. Fearless strokeplay, measured aggressiveness, and flawless timing—qualities that characterize a top-tier T20 player—were evident throughout the innings.
Gayle Sees a Record-Breaker in Abhishek Sharma
Chris Gayle, a former cricket player for PBKS and RCB, has praised Abhishek and asserted that he can surpass the record of 175* established by the Universe Boss against Pune Warriors India in 2013.
Gayle stated in an interview with India TV that Abhishek and a few other men may surpass his record. “He’s capable of breaking my 175 record,” Gayle said to India TV.
In addition to the innings itself, he has faith in the young player because of Abhishek’s style and reliability in previous seasons.
“He had an amazing innings. It’s incredible to score 140 runs or more in T20. These days, these players have little trouble winning T20 hundreds. Indeed, he is youthful and capable of receiving 175. He has demonstrated his talent. Players like Travis Head and Nicholas Pooran are also dangerous. These guys are scoring goals in an amazing manner. It’s great to see the game become more interesting,” he remarked.
Praise for Priyansh Arya and Young Left-Handers
Gayle also talked candidly about Priyansh Arya’s stunning IPL professional debut. “Left-handers are the finest, and he is one. I can only advise you to keep going, kid, since left-handers are known for blasting out of the park. He remarked, “We take on the bowlers, score a big hundred, and win the game.”
Arya has been a player to watch this season because to his early potential and aggressive purpose at the crease, and with endorsements from players like Gayle, expectations are only going to rise.
Gayle’s Title Prediction: RCB and PBKS in the Spotlight
In addition, Gayle revealed his IPL winner prediction, naming two teams, one of which may win the championship. “I have two teams in mind. For RCB, I’m going. I shall accompany them and the Punjab Kings, and I will continue to support the guns. I’m supporting them since they haven’t won the IPL previously,” he remarked.
Both clubs have had moments of excellence this season, and if they keep up their pace, they may become strong candidates for the championship.
On Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s T20I Retirements
Gayle also expressed his disappointment at Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma‘s retirements from the shortest international format, the Twenty20 International. “Those two guys can play for as long as they are able to. The fact that they retired from T20Is disappoints me. There’s a lot of value in those folks. “Those two guys set the train and have a lot to offer, but I know the kids have a lot to offer,” he Added.
Two of India’s contemporary greats have retired, leaving a hole, and Gayle’s remarks echo the feelings of cricket fans everywhere who grew up witnessing their supremacy in T20 cricket.
