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IPL 2026: 'Always Special To Perform In Front Of The Orange Army', Says Abhishek Sharma

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Sunrisers Hyderabad opener Abhishek Sharma credited clarity of role and support from teammates for his match-defining hundred, saying performing in front of the 'Orange Army' made the effort even more special. Hyderabad rode on a sensational, controlled assault from Abhishek, whose blistering yet calculated century powered them to a commanding 242/2 in 20 overs against Delhi Capitals in the 31st match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The left-handed southpaw struck 135 off 68 including ten sixes and as many boundaries. Abhishek underlined the significance of delivering at home, while also acknowledging the oppositions execution at the death. I mean of course it's always special to perform in front of the orange army. The way they bowled in the death overs, I thought they were executing their plans. I think I haven't practiced death batting much. But the way (Heinrich) Klaasen played, it helped us get to that total. The left-hander revealed that Klaasen played a key role in helping him stay composed when he began forcing the pace. He just wanted me to maintain the shape. I was trying too hard to find the boundary. That was because I don't play much in the death overs. I just wanted to give him the strike because we know how dangerous he can be in the death overs. The left-handed southpaw struck 135 off 68 including ten sixes and as many boundaries. Abhishek underlined the significance of delivering at home, while also acknowledging the oppositions execution at the death. I mean of course it's always special to perform in front of the orange army. The way they bowled in the death overs, I thought they were executing their plans. I think I haven't practiced death batting much. But the way (Heinrich) Klaasen played, it helped us get to that total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We are still trying to figure it out (laughs). I think above 220-230 is a good total. One of the top three batters will have to bat through and that's our plan every game. Article Source: IANS