On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima on Sunday, July 21, Indian cricket team’s young opener Abhishek Sharma honoured his mentors, legendary Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara, while highlighting their roles in his development.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude to his gurus on Guru Purnima, Abhishek, who recently made his India debut on the tour of Zimbabwe, shared his insights on how cricket legends Lara and Yuvraj have significantly influenced his development as a cricketer.

Abhishek Sharma reveals the influence of Yuvraj Singh and Brian Lara on his career

It is noteworthy that the young all-rounder met Lara at Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) when the West Indies great was the franchise’s coach in the IPL and has been his mentor ever since. Brian Lara has provided Abhishek with batting tips, strategic insights and mental strength, which have been instrumental for the youngster.

Well, the 23-year-old batting all-rounder acknowledged the key roles both mentors have played in honing his game as he spoke about a unique and intense training camp aided by the former Indian all-rounder at home during COVID-19 times.

Abhishek said he is lucky to have Lara and Yuvraj as mentors, and that their guidance has been invaluable, not just in cricket but in life. The left-hander said that he regularly seeks their advice and found their insights very useful, given their vast experience.

I am lucky to have Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh as mentors: Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma said in a video shared by Star Sports on the social media platform, “I liked Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh from the beginning. And thankfully, I had both of them as mentors. Whenever I discuss something with them, I feel like they have been through this before. So, whenever I have a problem, not just in cricket but off the field as well, I text them or call them personally. I always get the right answer from them.”

Meanwhile, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRH opener, along with teammates Shubman Gill and Prabhsimran Singh, got the opportunity to stay at Yuvraj Singh’s house for an exclusive, unrecorded training camp.

This two-month camp, which is not affiliated to any cricket association, was organised by Yuvraj to provide them intensive training in batting, bowling and fielding. Abhishek revealed that the camp also included interview sessions every Sunday, where the former World Cup winner would assess and guide the players on various aspects of the game.

Yuvraj Singh used to interview us every Sunday: Abhishek Sharma

Sharma emphasised how this rigorous training regime was crucial in improving his skills, particularly in batting. He signed off by saying, “During COVID, I stayed at his (Yuvraj’s) house. Me, Shubman Gill and Prabhsimran Singh. I had organised an off-season camp. Specially off-registration, without any association.

But he trained all three of us. And I think that training was very helpful for every batter and every player. Especially for me. Because for us it was a two-month period. In batting, pitching and fielding. Even in our interview course, he used to interview us every Sunday. So I think that helped a lot.”

Look here:

@IamAbhiSharma4 reveals how @BrianLara and @YUVSTRONG12 played pivotal roles in honing his game, including a special two-month unofficial camp with Yuvi 😍

On this Guru Purnima, we celebrate these mentors 🙏#TeamIndia #GuruPurnima #Cricket pic.twitter.com/VbRvF35eIe

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 21, 2024