Mumbai: India’s team management has addressed speculation around Abhishek Sharma’s availability for the high-profile T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, saying the left-handed opener is recovering steadily and remains under close medical observation.
Sharma missed India’s previous group match after being hospitalised with a stomach infection earlier in the week. He has since been discharged and has rejoined the squad, sparking questions over whether he will be fit in time for the marquee encounter against Pakistan.
Speaking on the team’s preparations, India all-rounder Varun Chakravarthy said Sharma has resumed training and has already spent time in the nets. According to teammates, the opener looks comfortable but is being eased back into full workload as a precaution.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav had earlier indicated that Sharma could miss one or two games while recovering fully, which added to uncertainty over his selection for the Pakistan match. Sharma was absent from the game against Namibia, where India went in with a different opening combination.
Team officials said Sharma’s health is improving, though he is still working on regaining full strength after losing weight during his illness. The final decision on his inclusion will depend on how he responds in training sessions leading up to the match.
The India–Pakistan clash is among the most anticipated fixtures of the T20 World Cup, with both teams aware of the pressure and attention surrounding the contest. India have made a strong start to the tournament, and the availability of a specialist opener like Sharma could influence team balance and strategy.
If Sharma is deemed unfit, India are expected to continue with the opening pair used in the previous match or explore other combinations based on conditions and match-ups. The team management is expected to take a call closer to match day after assessing Sharma’s readiness.
