Indian Opener Abhishek Sharma Hospitalised, Doubtful for T20 Matches

In a significant setback for the Indian cricket team, opener Abhishek Sharma has been hospitalised due to a stomach infection, rendering him doubtful for the upcoming T20 World Cup matches. The team is scheduled to face Namibia on February 12, 2024, followed by a crucial match against Pakistan on February 15, 2024, in Colombo.

Reports indicate that Sharma was admitted to a private hospital in Delhi on February 10, where he has been under observation for the last two days. According to a source from the BCCI, “Some tests are being done to ascertain the problem. It is still not clear whether he will be discharged today. But the match against Namibia looks doubtful as of now.”

In India’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA, Sharma had a disappointing performance, getting out for a first-ball duck and did not take the field during the second innings. Following the match, assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate confirmed that Sharma was recovering from a stomach bug. “Abhi still has got a few issues with his tummy,” Ten Doeschate said, expressing hope that Sharma would be fit for the next game.

If Sharma is unable to play against Namibia, the team has a backup option in Sanju Samson, who missed the playing XI for the opener due to a lack of form. Ishan Kishan, in good form, replaced Sharma at the top of the order against the USA.

Bumrah and Sundar Back in Contention

On a positive note for the Indian camp, star bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar are available for selection for the match against Namibia. Bumrah missed the opener due to illness, while Sundar has rejoined the squad after recovering from a side injury sustained during the New Zealand ODIs.

Both players participated in training sessions ahead of the match, with Sundar showing readiness by batting and bowling in the nets on February 11. Bumrah also returned to practice, adding depth to the squad as they prepare for the next phase of the T20 World Cup.

As India navigates this challenging situation, the fitness of Abhishek Sharma will play a crucial role in determining the line-up against Namibia and Pakistan, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports and its impact on team strategy.