 "‘That's why I went after them’: Abhishek Sharma explains his on-field clash with Pakistan players")
India’s Abhishek Sharma spoke after India’s 6-wicket win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash on Sunday, September 21. He explained the fiery altercation that broke out on the field during the chase. The confrontation began with the very first ball of India’s innings when Abhishek smashed Shaheen Shah Afridi for a six and hurled a mouthful.
Shubman Gill was also seen getting into heated exchanges with Shaheen and Haris Rauf, while Abhishek hit back at Rauf when he tried to confront Gill. “Today was pretty simple, the way they were coming out to us without any reason, I did not like it at all. That’s why I went after them. I wanted to deliver for the team,” the India opener said after the match.
Abhishek on his partnership with Gill
The Punjab batter played a blazing knock of 74 off 39 balls as he helped India set the tone in their chase of 172. He also forged a 101-run opening stand with Gill. “We have been playing since school days, we enjoy each other’s company, we thought we would do it and today was the day. The way he was giving it back, I really enjoyed it. If you see someone playing like this, it’s because the team supports me and they back me. That’s the intent I show and I’m practicing really hard and if it’s my day, I’m gonna win it for my team.”
Abhishek was named the Player of the Match for his explosive knock that snatched the game from Pakistan. Gill contributed with 47 off 28 balls, while Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 30 and Hardik Pandya on 7 not out. Suryakumar Yadav went for a duck, and Sanju Samson scored 13 before getting out. With the win, India strengthened their position in the Super 4 stage.
“The way the boys are stepping up in every game, it’s making my job very easy. The boys showed a lot of character. They complement each other really well (Abhishek and Gill). It’s like a fire and ice combination,” India skipper Suryakumar Yadav said.
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