Kane Williamson believes Abhishek Sharma’s success in T20 cricket stems from his unique ability to generate power through timing and technique rather than sheer strength. The former Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain, who has seen Abhishek’s evolution up close, praised the young batter’s versatility and maturity.

“He has a beautiful bat swing and is a natural timer of the ball,” Williamson told ESPNcricinfo. “He has that gift of power, but it’s not about brute force. It’s about timing and the ability to hit all around the ground—almost like a superpower. It reminds me a bit of Heinrich Klaasen—different in style, but both have the ability to change their shots at the last second and still score everywhere.”

Abhishek had a breakout season in IPL 2024, racking up 484 runs at a blistering strike rate of 204.21 across 16 innings. He formed a formidable opening pair with Travis Head and carried that form into international cricket, scoring two T20I centuries and maintaining a strike rate of 193.84 after 17 matches for India.

Williamson recalled that Abhishek’s talent was evident from the moment SRH brought him in from Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils) before the 2019 season, despite his limited experience in the league at the time.

“He was one of the young guys coming through under Yuvraj Singh’s mentorship, alongside Shubman Gill. So, clearly the talent was there,” Williamson said. “In the IPL, it’s often tough to create a long-term path for a youngster, but SRH saw something special—and now, it’s paying off with Abhi becoming one of the world’s most dangerous T20 batters.”

Reflecting on his early impressions, Williamson described Abhishek as a cheerful, confident young cricketer with a fearless approach to the game.

“He was this happy-go-lucky guy who just loved taking the game on,” he said. “He trained with intensity, hitting big and often losing balls because he struck them so far. That eagerness to engage with the game fully was visible even in those early days.”

While Abhishek is currently seen as a T20 specialist, Williamson believes he has the technique and mindset to succeed in red-ball cricket as well.

“Yes, his power game suits white-ball formats, but he’s technically sound too,” he noted. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he aspires to play Test cricket for India—that’s often the pinnacle. His game is clean and based on reading the ball, not just hitting blindly. He has the ability to adapt.”

Williamson also praised the development in Abhishek’s mental game, saying the youngster has grown more confident and composed over time.

“He’s matured a lot. His natural ball-striking ability and youthful energy are now backed by clarity and a solid game plan,” he said. “When you’re young and just starting out, you often wonder if you’re good enough. But Abhi now knows how he wants to play and is fearless in taking on the best bowlers.”

According to Williamson, the key to Abhishek’s progress lies in his hunger to keep improving.

“He’s constantly pushing the limits of his game. As you grow older and settle into a defined role, experience and decision-making become crucial. That’s what we’re seeing in Abhi now—a well-rounded cricketer evolving with every match.”