Abhishek Sharma entered the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as the No.1-ranked batter, expected to dominate with his aggressive strokeplay after a breakthrough 2025 season. However, the tournament turned into an early struggle for the 25-year-old, who began with three consecutive ducks and added a few more low scores, leading to criticism and questions over his place in the XI. Despite the poor start, Abhishek found his rhythm at a crucial stage. A composed 55 against Zimbabwe in the Super 8s hinted at a turnaround before he delivered when it mattered most. In the final against New Zealand, he smashed a 21-ball 52, putting on a 98-run opening stand with Sanju Samson to set up India’s title-winning victory. Having entered the tournament as the top-ranked batter, it was a campaign that tested both his methods and temperament before ending on a high. In an interaction with TOI, his long-time childhood friend and Punjab teammate Nehal Wadhera opened up on Abhishek’s journey, recalling how his talent was evident from a very young age. “Abhishek and I have been playing together since Under-14. So, yes, Abhishek definitely had those hitting skills from the start,” Wadhera said. He went on to recount a memorable Under-16 game that underlined Abhishek’s ability to perform under pressure. “I still remember when, in the Under-16 state tournament, he was captaining us. Him, me, Shubman, Prabhsimran, Naman Dhir — every one of us was together, and we won the championship that year as well. There was a game against Gujarat where we were chasing 410 on a turning track on the last day. Abhishek and Shubman chased it down. I think one made 150 and the other made 180. We always knew what he was capable of.” Wadhera emphasised that the aggressive batter the world sees today is a result of both natural ability and sustained hard work. “The game that we are watching now, we already knew about it. But he has definitely worked on it. How he has maximised the opportunities in the powerplay is really commendable. All thanks to Yuvraj Singh and his father, who coach and mentor him.” From watching Abhishek’s rise, Wadhera has also built his own path in the IPL, growing steadily as a dependable middle-order batter.
Learning from Ricky Ponting
Wadhera spoke about the impact of head coach Ricky Ponting at Punjab Kings, recalling his first interaction during a camp in Dharamshala. “That was the first time I met him. He’s a very jolly person, always positive and always keeping the environment happy,” Wadhera said. “When I was hitting boundaries and sixes, he was appreciating me. I even asked him about his mindset while playing international cricket and how he handled fast bowlers during his time.” “For a head coach, maintaining a positive environment is the most important thing. I think he’s doing a really good job.”
Playing under Rohit Sharma
Wadhera began his IPL career with Mumbai Indians, making his debut under Rohit Sharma, an experience he still values highly.
Rohit Sharma with Priyansh Arya and Nehal Wadhera (PTI Photo)
“I was fortunate enough to make my debut under Rohit Sharma. He’s someone I idolised growing up. I’ll always be grateful. I really enjoyed my time with MI as well, the two years I was there.”
Leadership of Shreyas Iyer
Now part of the Punjab Kings setup, Wadhera highlighted what sets captain Shreyas Iyer apart. “He has a different aura. He encourages players to play freely, regardless of results. That gives a lot of confidence.”
Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera (ANI Photo)
He added that such freedom allows players to express themselves fully and carry their domestic form onto the IPL stage without fear. Wadhera’s own IPL journey reflects steady growth. He made his debut in 2023, scoring two half-centuries in his first season. While opportunities were limited in 2024, he still made an impression with a 49 off 24 in his comeback match. After being released ahead of the 2025 Mega auction, he attracted interest from multiple franchises before Punjab Kings secured him for INR 4.20 crore. He justified that investment by scoring 369 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of over 145, playing a key role in the team’s run to the final.
Nehal Wadhera
Looking ahead, Wadhera remains firmly focused on collective success rather than personal milestones, especially after Punjab Kings fell agonisingly short last season. “There are personal goals, but I’ll speak about them once they are fulfilled. The only goal right now is to win the trophy.” Having missed out on the title by the narrowest of margins — a six-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final — Wadhera is determined to go one better this time. With a settled core, clearly defined roles and strong backing from the management, Punjab Kings head into IPL 2026 with renewed belief as they aim to turn last year’s heartbreak into silverware.
