India batter Abhishek Sharma’s parents have landed in Colombo ahead of India’s blockbuster T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan, even as the opener’s availability for February 15 remains up in the air. Their arrival has added a touch of family support to the build-up, with India still waiting on the final word over Abhishek’s recovery from a stomach infection.
Abhishek travelled with the Indian squad on Friday, which has naturally raised hopes that he could yet make it back in time for the big one at the R Premadasa Stadium. But with only a few days left, India are in no mood to take shortcuts when it comes to his fitness.
The timing has made Abhishek’s situation one of the most talked-about subplots of India’s World Cup campaign, especially since his tournament so far has been more stop-start than explosive.
WHAT HAPPENED TO ABHISHEK SHARMA?
Abhishek was hospitalised in Delhi earlier this week after suffering from a stomach infection, forcing him to sit out India’s group-stage fixture against Namibia. The illness came at the worst possible moment, right when the tournament was beginning to gather momentum.
His only appearance at the T20 World Cup so far is also one he will want to forget quickly. In India’s opener against the USA, Abhishek was dismissed for a golden duck, making his absence in the next match even more frustrating as he looked for an immediate comeback.
Although he has since been discharged from hospital, the focus has been firmly on ensuring he regains full strength rather than rushing him into action prematurely.
WILL ABHISHEK SHARMA PLAY IND VS PAK?
India are still awaiting a final call on Abhishek’s fitness ahead of Sunday’s showdown. Captain Suryakumar Yadav had said at the toss against Namibia that the opener would be unavailable for “a game or two”, leaving the Pakistan match hanging in the balance.
Several former cricketers have also urged India not to rush Abhishek back just for the sake of the marquee clash, reminding everyone that the World Cup does not end on February 15. With the Super 8s and knockout stages around the corner, India will want Abhishek fully fit for the business end, not half-ready for one night of adrenaline.
And India do have backup plans ready. Against Namibia, it was Sanju Samson who opened alongside Ishan Kishan, and the pair showed plenty of promise. Sanju’s redemption cameo was short but lively, as he smashed 22 off just 8 balls, while Ishan made the most of the opportunity with a blistering 61 off 24 deliveries, including a 20-ball fifty.
So if Abhishek does not recover in time, or if India decide caution is the smarter play, the top order is not exactly left scrambling.
For now, India wait, Abhishek heals, and Colombo builds up to a Sunday showdown that may or may not feature one of India’s most explosive openers.
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