India leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy believes attacking opener Abhishek Sharma is likely to be fit for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against Pakistan on Sunday, February 15. He said the left-handed batter is recovering well. Abhishek got out for a golden duck in India’s opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against USA in Mumbai.
He later fell ill with a stomach infection and was even hospitalized. Because of this, the 25-year-old missed India’s next match against Namibia in Delhi, which the team won by 93 runs. After the Namibia game, Chakaravarthy shared a positive update about Abhishek’s condition, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
“I think he will play the next match. I don’t know. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today [Thursday]. He said he is on the way.”
Earlier, after India lost the toss, captain Suryakumar Yadav said that Abhishek might need a match or two to fully recover. The BCCI also released an official update about the Indian opener and stated:
“Abhishek Sharma is still recovering from his illness and was unavailable for selection. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his progress.”
Abhishek has played an important role in India’s success in T20Is over the past two seasons. In 39 matches, the left-handed batter has scored 1,297 runs at an average of 36.02 and an impressive strike rate of 194.45. His record includes two centuries and eight half-centuries.
Sanju Samson Misses Chance to Impress in Abhishek Sharma’s Absence
Since Abhishek was not available for the T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia, Team India gave Sanju Samson another opportunity. The Kerala batter started well and played a few attacking shots, but once again got out early. He scored 22 runs off just eight balls, hitting three sixes and a four. He was dismissed after softly flicking a slower delivery from Ben Shikongo to deep mid-wicket.
Ishan Kishan was India’s top scorer with 61 runs from 24 balls, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya added 52 off 28 deliveries. India batted first and put up 209/9 on the board. They then bowled out Namibia for 116 in 18.2 overs. Varun Chakaravarthy was outstanding, taking 3 wickets for just 7 runs in two overs, while Pandya and Axar Patel picked up two wickets each.
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