Mumbai: India opener Abhishek Sharma is racing against time to regain full fitness ahead of the high-profile T20 World Cup encounter against Pakistan on February 15 in Colombo, after a recent bout of stomach infection left him weakened and sidelined.
The 25-year-old left-hander was admitted to hospital earlier this week after complaining of high fever and severe stomach discomfort. Although he has since been discharged, concerns remain over his physical condition and match readiness. He missed India’s Group A fixture against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium and did not participate in training sessions leading up to that match.
According to reports, Sharma has experienced noticeable weight loss during his illness and is still regaining strength. Recovery from such infections can take time, particularly for athletes who rely on endurance and sustained concentration at the highest level.
India’s next assignment is a marquee showdown with Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium. Team management is expected to assess Sharma’s condition during practice sessions in Colombo before making a final call on his inclusion in the playing XI.
Sources indicate that selectors will closely monitor his ability to bat for extended periods in the nets. Typically, Sharma spends up to 75–90 minutes batting during long practice sessions, often taking multiple turns over three hours. Replicating that routine workload could determine whether he is fit enough to start.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav offered a cautious update at the toss against Namibia, acknowledging that Sharma has not yet fully recovered. “He might need a game or two to get back to full fitness,” he said, hinting that the opener’s participation against Pakistan remains uncertain.
Sharma had earlier featured against the USA despite not being at peak fitness, but his condition worsened during the match. He was dismissed for a first-ball duck and did not return to the field, with Sanju Samson stepping in as a substitute fielder.
Meanwhile, India continued their strong campaign in the tournament. Under Suryakumar’s leadership, the team secured a commanding 93-run victory over Namibia in the T20 World Cup 2026. Half-centuries from Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan powered India to 209/9 in 20 overs. Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy claimed three wickets, while Axar Patel and Hardik chipped in with two each to bowl Namibia out for 116.
As anticipation builds for the India-Pakistan clash, Sharma’s recovery will be closely watched, with team officials hoping the explosive opener can return to bolster the top order for one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
