The Indian team have won both their opening games in the T20 World Cup 2026, beating the USA and Namibia to top Group A, and now need just another win to confirm their place in the Super Eight stage of the tournament. However, much of the early discussion surrounding the marquee game against Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo centres on the availability of opener Abhishek Sharma.
The left-handed batter missed India’s second game in the World Cup as he continued his recovery from a stomach infection. Earlier this week, reports emerged that Abhishek had been unwell and was running a high fever during the tournament opener against the USA in Mumbai, where he neither took the field in the second innings nor stepped out for the post-match handshakes.
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His condition worsened after the team reached Delhi, and he was admitted to a private hospital in the capital. He was discharged on Wednesday, but India did not rush him back into the playing XI immediately. Abhishek was, however, present in the dressing room during the match against Namibia, a sight that revived hopes of his return for the marquee clash against Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium this weekend.
However, captain Suryakumar Yadav all but confirmed that Abhishek might take a little longer to recover and could be a doubtful starter for the Pakistan game.
“Abhishek isn’t fine still, might take one or two games,” he said at the toss on Thursday.
Earlier that same evening, news agency PTI reported that Abhishek did not train on Thursday as he was still feeling weak. The stomach infection had taken a toll on his body, reportedly leading to some weight loss, and in severe cases, recovery can take time, especially when it comes to regaining strength and endurance required for top-flight cricket.
In his stead, Sanju Samson opened the batting alongside Ishan Kishan.
However, after the match, teammate Varun Chakravarthy offered a contrasting update, reigniting hopes that Abhishek could yet feature against Pakistan.
“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,” said Chakravarthy, who starred with the ball in the win over Namibia.
The speculation is likely to continue until India reach Colombo and hold their first training session in the build-up to the high-voltage clash.
