Key points
- Abhishek Sharma hospitalised with stomach infection
- Final decision after Colombo training session
- Lost two kilograms during illness
ISLAMABAD: India opener Abhishek Sharma remains a doubt for the highly anticipated T20 World Cup match against Pakistan after being hospitalised earlier this week with a stomach infection, according to Indian media reports.
The left-handed batter was admitted due to gastric complications but has since been discharged after showing signs of recovery. Sharma has rejoined the Indian squad, though concerns remain over his fitness as he is reportedly still feeling weak.
Team medical staff are closely monitoring his condition ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster fixture in Colombo. Reports indicate that a final decision on whether he will feature in the playing XI will be made during India’s training session on Friday.
Health update
Sharma recently appeared in a video with pacer Arshdeep Singh, where he provided an update on his health. He revealed that during his illness he was restricted to eating plain rice and lentils, and said he lost nearly two kilograms.
The India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for Sunday, with the Indian team set to arrive in Colombo from Delhi later tonight as preparations intensify.
Sharma has been a standout performer in T20 cricket, scoring 1,297 runs in 39 matches at an explosive strike rate of 194.95, including eight fifties and two centuries. Against Pakistan, he has played three matches, scoring 110 runs at a strike rate close to 190, with one half-century.
India and Pakistan have met 16 times in T20Is, with India winning 13. In T20 World Cup encounters, India lead 6-1, with one match producing no result.
