India leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy believes attacking opener Abhishek Sharma is prone to be fit for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against Pakistan on Sunday, February 15. He said the left-handed batter is recovering well. Abhishek got out for a golden duck in India’s opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against USA in Mumbai.
He later fell in poor health with a stomach infection and was even hospitalized. For this reason, the 25-year-old missed India’s next match against Namibia in Delhi, which the team won by 93 runs. After the Namibia game, Chakaravarthy shared a positive update about Abhishek’s condition, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
“I feel he’ll play the subsequent match. I don’t know. So far as I actually have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today [Thursday]. He said he’s on the best way.”
Earlier, after India lost the toss, captain Suryakumar Yadav said that Abhishek might need a match or two to totally get better. The BCCI also released an official update concerning the Indian opener and stated:
“Abhishek Sharma continues to be recovering from his illness and was unavailable for selection. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his progress.”
Abhishek has played a very important role in India’s success in T20Is over the past two seasons. In 39 matches, the left-handed batter has scored 1,297 runs at a median of 36.02 and a powerful strike rate of 194.45. His record includes two centuries and eight half-centuries.
Sanju Samson Misses Probability to Impress in Abhishek Sharma’s Absence
Since Abhishek was not available for the T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia, Team India gave Sanju Samson one other opportunity. The Kerala batter began well and played a number of attacking shots, but once more got out early. He scored 22 runs off just eight balls, hitting three sixes and a 4. He was dismissed after softly flicking a slower delivery from Ben Shikongo to deep mid-wicket.
Ishan Kishan was India’s top scorer with 61 runs from 24 balls, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya added 52 off 28 deliveries. India batted first and put up 209/9 on the board. They then bowled out Namibia for 116 in 18.2 overs. Varun Chakaravarthy was outstanding, taking 3 wickets for just 7 runs in two overs, while Pandya and Axar Patel picked up two wickets each.
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