Dinesh Karthik Backs Abhishek Sharma Ahead of India vs England T20 World Cup 2026 Semi Final

Former India wicket keeper Dinesh Karthik has urged the team management led by Gautam Gambhir to retain the current top order for India’s semi final clash against England in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

India will face England national cricket team in the second semi final at Wankhede Stadium. The team’s opening combination has been under discussion during the tournament, particularly due to the inconsistent form of opener Abhishek Sharma.

India started the tournament with a left hand heavy top order, which struggled against off spin bowling in the Powerplay. The challenge forced the team management to rethink its strategy before the Super 8 match against Zimbabwe national cricket team, when Sanju Samson was promoted to open alongside Abhishek Sharma.

Abhishek Sharma faced a difficult start in the group stage with three consecutive ducks. He later scored 55 against Zimbabwe but managed only 10 runs in the match against West Indies cricket team.

Despite the dip in form, Karthik backed the young opener and said the team should continue with the current opening combination.

"In a big tournament like a World Cup, you have to trust the players who have got you there. I believe they need to stick to Abhishek, Sanju, and Ishan Kishan. Give themselves the best chance of success on the big day," ICC expert Dinesh Karthik said while speaking to media during the JioStar Media Day, ahead of the India vs England second semi-final clash in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

Sanju Samson has been one of India’s key performers in the tournament. His unbeaten 97 against West Indies at Eden Gardens secured India’s place in the semi finals and strengthened the team’s attacking approach at the top.

England all rounder Sam Curran has also acknowledged the threat posed by Abhishek Sharma. The youngster had earlier scored a 37 ball century against England during a bilateral series before the World Cup.

India will now aim to maintain momentum when they face England in the semi final clash.