Indian opener Abhishek Sharma has been hospitalised with a stomach infection ahead of India’s T20 World Cup group-stage clash against Namibia on February 12 in New Delhi, casting doubt over his availability for the fixture.
The left-handed batter was unwell even before India’s previous match against the USA, but played through the illness. His condition reportedly worsened after the game, with Abhishek running a high temperature and requiring intravenous drips for relief. He missed the team’s practice session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday.
A BCCI source confirmed to PTI that Abhishek had been admitted to a private hospital in Delhi for tests to determine the extent of the problem, adding that his participation against Namibia “looks doubtful as of now.”
Signs of his illness were visible during the USA match, where Abhishek was dismissed for a golden duck and did not take the field during India’s bowling innings. Sanju Samson fielded as his substitute, and Abhishek was notably absent from the post-match handshakes after India’s victory.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate struck a cautiously optimistic tone, telling the media, “Abhi still has a few issues with his tummy. We are hopeful that he’ll be available for the game in two days’ time.”
On a positive note, Doeschate confirmed that Washington Sundar has joined the Indian squad and will train with the team. He also provided an encouraging update on Jasprit Bumrah, saying the pace spearhead is “feeling a lot better” and bowling well after a 10-day break.
Doeschate praised captain Suryakumar Yadav’s match-winning effort against the USA, crediting his leadership in rescuing the team during a difficult phase.
