The Biz Reporter
New Delhi: India opener Abhishek Sharma remains a doubtful starter for the high-voltage T20 World Cup 2026 clash against Pakistan after suffering a stomach infection that led to hospitalisation earlier this week.
The 25-year-old missed India’s Group A fixture against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi after complaining of high fever and stomach pain. Though discharged from hospital, Abhishek is still regaining strength and has reportedly lost weight during his illness.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed at the toss that the left-hander is yet to fully recover. “Abhishek isn’t fine still, might take one or two games,” he said, indicating the opener’s availability for the February 15 contest at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo will depend on his performance in upcoming practice sessions.
Abhishek had earlier featured against the USA despite not being 100 per cent fit, but his condition worsened during the match. He was dismissed for a first-ball duck and did not take the field thereafter, with Sanju Samson stepping in as substitute.
Meanwhile, India registered a dominant 93-run win over Namibia, posting 209/9 in 20 overs. All-rounder Hardik Pandya struck a fluent half-century and picked up two wickets, while Varun Chakaravarthy claimed three scalps to bowl Namibia out for 116.
In another standout moment of the tournament, Italy secured their maiden T20 World Cup victory with a commanding 10-wicket win over Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar lauded the achievement, noting how a proud footballing nation is making its mark in cricket.
With crucial group-stage fixtures ahead, India will hope Abhishek recovers in time, while emerging teams like Italy continue to add fresh excitement to the global showpiece.
