Finch on Abhishek Sharma: Skip India-Pakistan Game if Not Fully Fit

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has advised the Indian team management not to rush opener Abhishek Sharma back into the playing XI, stressing that long-term tournament goals should take priority over the high-profile India vs Pakistan clash.

Abhishek’s fitness has become a concern for India in the ongoing T20 World Cup. The aggressive left-hander played against the USA despite feeling unwell but was dismissed on the first ball and did not take the field afterward. He later missed the Namibia match due to viral fever and a stomach infection that briefly required hospitalisation, with the illness also causing noticeable weight loss.

Although spinner Varun Chakaravarthy indicated that Abhishek travelled with the squad to Colombo and could return soon, Finch urged caution. Speaking to India Today, the former skipper said India’s squad depth allows them to be patient with the young opener’s recovery.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma's Recovery in Doubt Ahead of High-Voltage Pakistan Clash

Finch also praised the attacking starts provided by Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan at the top of the order. He noted that while the India-Pakistan fixture carries enormous pressure, teams must keep their focus on the later stages of the tournament, including the Super 8s, semi-finals, and final.

“You can’t win the tournament in the first phase, but you can certainly lose it,” Finch said, emphasising that risking an underprepared player could backfire. He added that Abhishek is among the most dangerous batters in world cricket and should return only when fully fit.

The advice comes as India’s think tank, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, weighs selection decisions ahead of the marquee clash. Team management is expected to monitor Abhishek’s recovery closely before taking a final call on his inclusion.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma's Recovery in Doubt Ahead of High-Voltage Pakistan Clash