Australia spinner Matt Kuhnemann has hailed India opener Abhishek Sharma as a “serious batting talent” and admitted that dismissing him early would be key to Australia’s hopes of sealing the ongoing T20I series. Following his breakthrough performance in the Asia Cup in the UAE, where he was named Player of the Tournament, Abhishek continued his rich vein of form in the second T20I in Melbourne. The left-hander struck a blistering 68 off 37 balls, rescuing India at a time when wickets were tumbling in clusters.

‘Hopefully the quick bowlers can get him early’, says Matt Kuhnemann

With the five-match series locked at 1-1, much of India’s hopes rest on the young opener’s shoulders heading into the final two games.

“Well, hopefully Xavier Bartlett or one of the quicks, Benny (Benjamin) Dwarshuis, can take his (Abhishek’s) wicket in the first couple of overs. He’s a serious talent and just goes so hard from ball one,” Kuhnemann told cricket.com.au. “It’s going to be a great spectacle on Thursday, but hopefully the boys can get him cheaply.”

The 29-year-old left-arm spinner, who could feature in his fifth T20I on Thursday, noted the striking similarities between the Indian and Australian playing styles.

“Yeah, I think the way they’re playing is quite similar to how we’re approaching the game as well — very explosive from the start. The game’s changing rapidly, and taking wickets in the middle overs is going to be crucial for both sides,” he added.

‘Gold coast is becoming a cricket hotspot’

Kuhnemann was also proud of his hometown and said that the Gold Coast was becoming very quickly one of the most valuable cricket centers in Australia.

“I still think Gold Coast is the place to be. The population is growing very fast, and we are turning out some fine cricketers here, so the more matches we play, the better it will be,” he said.

He anticipates that Carrara Oval will provide a different and refreshing experience compared to the low-scoring pitches that were seen in the early part of the series. “The wicket keeps getting better every year, so I am expecting a good wicket and a high-scoring game.”

When asked if a strong showing could open doors to the IPL, Kuhnemann admitted it’s tough for left-arm spinners to land a contract but remains open to the opportunity.

“I’d love to play the IPL. It’s pretty tough to get a gig as a spinner, though,” he said. “I don’t think about it too much — I just love playing cricket anywhere, whether it’s in England or India.”

(By PTI Inputs)