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

India’s Abhishek Sharma remains a doubt for the high-stakes T20 World Cup Group A clash against Pakistan on February 15, despite being released from a Delhi hospital earlier this week. Sharma, a key opener for the team, was hospitalised due to a severe stomach infection that caused high fever and intense stomach pain. Although he has begun light practice, concerns persist over his readiness for top-flight cricket.

Sharma did not participate fully in Thursday’s training session at the Feroz Shah Kotla before travelling to Colombo, with the Indian team monitoring his recovery closely. India captain Suryakumar Yadav indicated that Sharma may need to miss one or two matches to regain full fitness, leaving his participation in the Pakistan game uncertain. In his absence, Sanju Samson opened alongside Ishan Kishan in the previous fixtures.

Varun Chakravarthy, who starred with the ball in India’s recent 93-run win over Namibia, provided a positive update on Sharma’s condition. “As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today also. He told me he is on the way,” Chakravarthy said, highlighting that Sharma is gradually regaining strength. However, he has experienced some weight loss and requires time to rebuild stamina and endurance for competitive play.

Also Read: Who Opens for India vs Namibia? Gambhir's Headache After Abhishek & Kishan Setbacks

Sharma’s performance in net sessions in Colombo is expected to be the key indicator of his readiness. Typically, during three-hour training sessions, Sharma bats for 75 to 90 minutes, simulating match conditions. Team management will assess whether he can handle a full batting workload before confirming his inclusion against Pakistan.

The uncertainty surrounding Sharma adds strategic complexity to India’s lineup against arch-rivals Pakistan. While his presence would strengthen India’s top order, the team has prepared contingency plans, with Samson and Kishan expected to shoulder the opening responsibilities if Sharma is deemed unfit.

As the T20 World Cup intensifies, India’s management and coaching staff are closely monitoring player fitness, balancing recovery with competitive readiness. Fans will be watching Sharma’s training sessions in Colombo for signs that he can return to the field for one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma Out of Hospital But Fitness Uncertain for Namibia T20 World Cup Clash