India’s rising batting star Abhishek Sharma, who has dazzled in T20Is over the past year, is now on the brink of breaking into the 50-over format. Multiple reports suggest that the national selectors, impressed by his recent form in the Asia Cup 2025, are seriously considering his inclusion for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia starting October 19.
Stellar Form in T20Is and Asia Cup 2025
At just 24 years old, Sharma has already cemented himself as India’s go-to opener in T20 internationals. Since making his debut in 2024, the Punjab-born left-hander has scored 708 runs in 21 T20Is at an average of 35.40 and a remarkable strike rate of 197.21. His tally includes two centuries and three half-centuries, underlining his ability to score quickly at the top of the order.
His standout form has continued into the Asia Cup 2025. In four matches so far, Sharma has accumulated 173 runs at an average of 43.25 and a tournament-best strike rate of 208.43. A defining moment came in India’s Super Four clash against Pakistan, where his blistering 74 off 39 balls set up a comfortable win. Together with Shubman Gill, Sharma added 105 runs for the opening wicket in less than 10 overs, neutralizing Pakistan’s new-ball attack and earning widespread acclaim.
Domestic Record Strengthens Case for ODI Debut
While Sharma has not yet played an ODI for India, his performances in List A cricket strengthen his case. Across 61 matches, he has scored 2,014 runs at an average of 35.33 and a strike rate just under 100. He has also chipped in with 38 wickets as a useful left-arm spinner, adding to his value as an all-round option in limited-overs cricket.
These numbers compare favorably to other young openers in contention. Yashasvi Jaiswal, for instance, debuted in ODIs earlier this year but has had limited opportunities. With the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle in mind, the selectors are believed to be assessing whether Sharma explosive batting could give India an edge in conditions similar to Australia.
Selector and Team Management Perspectives
According to a report in the Times of India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee is deliberating on Sharma promotion, noting his ability to deliver under pressure. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, known for backing aggressive top-order players, is reportedly in favor of giving Sharma a chance in the 50-over format.
Sharma himself has spoken about his dedication to batting long hours in the nets, often working on both his power-hitting and rotational game – skills that are critical in ODIs. Team insiders have also highlighted his versatility, pointing out that he can adapt quickly between formats while maintaining his attacking instincts.
Potential Selection Dilemma
Sharma potential inclusion, however, raises questions about team balance. India’s current ODI openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, were last seen together during the Champions Trophy earlier this year. Rohit, the long-serving captain, remains a fixture in the setup, while Gill has emerged as a future leader of the side, set to captain India in the upcoming Test series against the West Indies.
If Sharma is included, the selectors will face a tough choice: either resting Gill for the ODIs following the Test series or rethinking the role of Jaiswal, who has been on the fringes. KL Rahul, another senior player, remains a backup opening option. This creates a selection logjam that the management must resolve carefully to ensure fairness and balance.
Looking Ahead to Australia
India’s tour of Australia begins with three ODIs from October 19, followed by five T20Is. The series is seen as crucial preparation for the 2027 World Cup cycle, offering opportunities to test younger players in high-pressure conditions. For Sharma, this could mark the beginning of a new chapter, allowing him to carry his T20 form into the longer limited-overs format.
Whether he breaks into the final XI or not, Sharma trajectory underscores India depth in batting talent. His performances in the Asia Cup have already earned him recognition as one of the brightest prospects in world cricket. The next few weeks will determine if he can extend that impact into ODIs, potentially becoming a mainstay in India’s white-ball setup for years to come.
