Gautam Gambhir in serious chat with out-of-form Abhishek Sharma in team bus – WATCH

NEW DELHI: Gautam Gambhir was seen in an intense conversation with Abhishek Sharma inside the team bus after India landed in Chennai ahead of their crucial Super 8 clash in the T20 World Cup 2026. As players boarded the bus outside the Chennai airport, cameras captured the Indian head coach and the struggling opener seated just behind the driver, engaged in what appeared to be a serious discussion. The video has since gone viral on social media.

Abhishek, one of India’s brightest young prospects, is enduring a difficult run in the tournament. His numbers tell the story — 0, 0, 0 and 15. The left-hander failed to open his account in group matches against USA, Pakistan and the Netherlands.

Despite backing from the team management, he could not capitalise on another opportunity in the Super 8 match against South Africa.

Chasing a stiff target, Abhishek began positively with a boundary, briefly raising hopes of a turnaround.

However, he was dismissed for 15, and India eventually slumped to a heavy 76-run defeat. The loss not only dented India’s momentum but also raised fresh concerns over the top order’s form.

With the stakes rising in the Super 8 stage, India arrived in Chennai on Monday for their second Super 8 fixture against Zimbabwe, scheduled for February 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

As the squad made its way to the hotel from the airport, the focus shifted to Gambhir and Abhishek’s animated exchange.

From their body language, it appeared the coach was offering guidance and perhaps discussing technical or tactical adjustments ahead of the must-win encounter.

Abhishek has managed just 15 runs in four matches so far, and his prolonged lean patch has become a matter of concern for the defending champions.

India will be hoping the young opener can rediscover his rhythm quickly. With the semifinal race heating up, a strong start at the top could prove vital against Zimbabwe.