‘Abhishek Sharma Must Balance Aggression With Awareness': Madan Lal Ahead Of India vs England T20 World Cup Semi-Final

New Delhi, March 5: Former India all-rounder Madan Lal believes young opener Abhishek Sharma must strike the right balance between aggression and awareness as India prepare to face England in the T20 World Cup semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday (March 5).

The 1983 World Cup winner said that while Abhishek's attacking approach suits the T20 format, he must also understand opposition strategies and adapt his game at the international level.

'Bowlers Will Study Your Weakness At This Level'

"Abhishek Sharma is playing the way he knows best, but sometimes you have to think about what the opposition is planning," Madan Lal said while speaking to PTI. "At the international level, bowlers will study your weaknesses and plan accordingly. You have to respect the bowlers, the opposition and your own game."

The former India coach added that the young batter appears to be caught in two minds at times about whether to attack or hold back, which can affect decision-making in high-pressure games.

"I feel he is sometimes in two minds - whether to hit or stop. In T20 cricket you cannot really stop, but you also have to play along the ground and choose the right shots. Consistency is very important at this level," he explained.

'Sanju Samson Is A Class Player'

While advising Abhishek, Madan Lal also praised Sanju Samson for his impressive batting display in India's previous match against West Indies, calling the wicketkeeper-batter a "class player" capable of playing match-defining knocks.

"Sanju Samson is a class player. Players with that kind of class can play innings that change the game," Madan Lal said. "If you analyse his innings, he played all the cricketing shots and mostly along the ground without fear."

Semi-Final Could Turn In A Single Over

Looking ahead to the semi-final, Madan Lal said the clash between India and England could go either way given the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket.

"The semifinal matches are one step away from the final and it can be anyone's match," he said. "In T20 cricket you can lose a winning match and win a losing one. Sometimes it comes down to one over, two or three wickets, or even a run-out."

India And England Both Have Strong Bowling Units

The former India all-rounder acknowledged England's strong balance but insisted that India have an equally formidable side.

"England have done well and they have a very all-round team. But at the same time, we also have a very good side," he said. "Our batting line-up is strong and we have quality bowlers."

Madan Lal also highlighted the key bowling options on both sides, mentioning England's leg-spinner Adil Rashid, while India will rely on Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh to make an impact.

Wankhede Pitch Likely To Produce Runs

Speaking about the venue, Madan Lal expects a lively surface at the Wankhede Stadium, which could lead to a high-scoring contest.

"Wankhede's wicket is very good. It has bounce and the ball turns a little later," he said. "If there is dew, it can become tricky for bowlers. Both teams have players who can score quickly, so you can expect a very good game of cricket."

'Of Course I Want India To Win'

Despite acknowledging how closely matched the teams are, Madan Lal said he hopes India can secure a place in the final.

"It is difficult to predict, but of course I want India to win," he said. "They are not very far from the final and any win is good for the country."