T20 World Cup 2026: Why did Abhishek Sharma wear Mohammed Siraj's jersey in India vs Netherlands clash?

India opener Abhishek Sharma found himself at the centre of attention for an unusual reason during Wednesday’s T20 World Cup group-stage match against the Netherlands. When he walked out to bat, it wasn’t in his own jersey, but in teammate Mohammed Siraj’s kit, immediately catching the eye of viewers and commentators alike.

After captain Suryakumar Yadav opted to bat first, Abhishek was slightly delayed in taking guard. He was initially seen wearing Arshdeep Singh’s jersey before making a late switch to Siraj’s. On commentary, Nasser Hussain and Sunil Gavaskar suggested that the left-hander had forgotten his playing jersey back at the team hotel, forcing a last-minute adjustment.

Speculation soon followed on social media. Having already suffered ducks against the USA and Pakistan, some fans wondered whether the jersey change was driven by superstition in search of a change in fortune.

That hope, however, did not materialise, as Abhishek was dismissed for a third consecutive duck, once again undone by off spin. Netherlands spinner Aryan Dutt followed a clear plan, cramping him for room with deliveries at 96.3 kph and 96.4 kph before firing in a quicker 99 kph slider on middle and leg stump. Abhishek cleared his front leg and attempted the pull, only to be bowled, mirroring his dismissal against Pakistan.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson had earlier revealed that his side spent several hours planning that wicket, a method the Netherlands appeared to replicate successfully, and against USA the southpaw was caught at extra cover result of a brilliant fielding placement by USA.

Despite the early setback, India recovered strongly to post a competitive 193. The innings was powered by an exceptional half-century from Shivam Dube, who counter-attacked through the middle overs, while Hardik Pandya provided late impetus with a burst of clean hitting at the death.

In reply, the Netherlands fought hard but were kept in check by India’s bowlers, eventually finishing on 176. India sealed a 17-run victory, rounding off their group campaign with another win.