India opener Abhishek Sharma was released from a hospital in Delhi on Wednesday after receiving treatment for a stomach illness. The left-handed batter had been admitted for medical tests soon after the team reached the capital on Sunday. His teammate Tilak Varma shared an update with reporters a day before India’s upcoming clash against Namibia, confirming that Abhishek’s condition had improved and that he was recovering steadily.
“When we reached Delhi, he went to the hospital for scans. He was discharged today. He is doing well. We have got one more day to go for the game. We will decide by tomorrow. It will depend on how he feels.” Tilak said.
Abhishek, currently ranked World No. 1 in T20Is, had featured in India’s opening match of the tournament against the USA in Mumbai on 7 February despite not being fully fit. However, he was dismissed for a duck off the second ball and did not take the field while the USA chased a target of 161 runs unsuccessfully. His absence was also noted during India’s training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday, where he did not participate. He reportedly skipped travelling with the squad on match eve and even left a team dinner hosted by Gautam Gambhir earlier than scheduled due to discomfort.
Possible Changes In The Playing XI
With uncertainty surrounding Abhishek Sharma’s availability for the Namibia game, the team management is expected to take a careful approach. Sanju Samson is likely to step in as opener if Abhishek fails to regain full fitness in time. The selectors and support staff are also mindful of the high-profile contest against Pakistan on 15 February and may avoid taking risks with his recovery.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel offered a different viewpoint regarding the opening combination. He suggested that Washington Sundar could be promoted to open the innings, especially considering conditions in Colombo where India might require an additional spin option.
“When you are thinking about preparing playing XI for Colombo (game against Pakistan) where there the ball will turn a bit and stop a bit. Why not try and open with Washington Sundar instead of bringing in Sanju Samson. Just in case, Abhsihek doesn’t get fit for the Pakistan clash, you will have an attacking opener and a spinner, which maybe useful against Pakistan,” Parthiv told Star Sports.
Washington Sundar, who joined the squad in Delhi after recovering from a rib injury that kept him out of the T20I series against New Zealand, had an impressive training session on Tuesday. He bowled with control and later displayed strong hitting ability, sending several balls into the stands. His performance in practice has added another selection option for the team management as they prepare for crucial matches ahead.
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