Mohammad Amir on Abhishek Sharma has sparked debate during the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, after the former Pakistan pacer clarified his controversial “slogger” remark about the struggling Indian opener. With India fighting to stay alive in the tournament, Amir said his comments were made strictly from a bowler’s technical perspective and not as personal criticism.
Abhishek has endured a difficult campaign, scoring just 15 runs across four matches, including three consecutive ducks against the United States, Pakistan and the Netherlands. His poor run of form has come at a crucial juncture, placing additional pressure on India’s batting lineup in the Super 8 stage.
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Amir Explains ‘Slogger’ Comment
The controversy began when Amir referred to Abhishek as a “slogger” following his dismissal against the United States, just ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash. The timing of the remark amplified its impact, especially as the Indian left-hander continued to struggle.
Speaking on Pakistani television show Haarna Mana Hai, Amir clarified that his comment was rooted in technical analysis.
“I was talking about him from the point of view of a bowler. I was talking about his technique. People felt bad because I used the word slogger,” Amir said.
The former Pakistan fast bowler, who retired from international cricket but remains widely respected for his tactical acumen, explained that Abhishek’s technique makes him vulnerable against quality bowling attacks.
Technical Concerns Highlighted
Amir elaborated that international bowlers can exploit predictable shot selection and limited scoring areas.
“By that, I meant his technique is such that a good team, a bunch of good bowlers, can trap him. Look at the 14 runs he scored he scored all of them on one side. The balls he hit were bad balls. But when Rabada started bowling well, he was not able to figure it out,” Amir explained, referring to South African pacer Kagiso Rabada.
Abhishek did manage a brief start against South Africa in the Super 8 match in Ahmedabad but was dismissed for 15, extending his lean patch.
Notably, he became the first Indian cricketer to register three consecutive ducks in a T20 World Cup tournament.
Also read: Suryakumar Yadav Backs Abhishek Sharma Despite Three Ducks at T20 World Cup 2026
Advice for Abhishek Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
Despite the criticism, Amir also offered constructive advice to the young opener as India prepare for must-win encounters.
“As a senior player, if my message goes to him, I will tell him, Your technique gets exposed in international cricket. If you can show some patience and play the ball on its merit, then it will be better. He has the skills, but it depends on him how well he will utilize them,” Amir added.
India next face Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26, followed by a clash against West Indies on March 1. The Men in Blue are under significant pressure after suffering a heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa, which has complicated their semifinal qualification hopes.
To stay in contention, India must secure convincing victories in both remaining Super 8 matches while also relying on favorable results elsewhere in the group.
With scrutiny mounting, all eyes will be on Abhishek to respond to criticism and deliver when it matters most.