Abhishek Sharma suffers weight loss due to stomach infection, availability for Pakistan T20 World Cup match touch and go

By Admin

13 Feb, 2026

India’s explosive opener Abhishek Sharma is facing a touch-and-go situation ahead of the high-voltage T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan on February 15 at the R Premadasa Stadium. The 25-year-old left-handed batter is recovering from a stomach infection that forced him to miss India’s Group A match against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Hospitalisation and Sudden Health Setback

Abhishek complained of high fever and severe stomach pain ahead of the Namibia fixture and had to be hospitalised. Although he has since been discharged, he did not attend the practice session and was absent from training drills.

He was spotted at the venue before the Namibia game but did not participate in warm-ups. According to PTI reports, Abhishek is still feeling weak and has lost some weight due to the infection. In such cases, regaining strength and endurance can take time   a critical factor when preparing for high-intensity international matches.

Availability Depends on Colombo Practice Sessions

Abhishek’s participation in the marquee India vs Pakistan encounter will largely depend on how he performs during practice sessions in Colombo. As per reports, if he is able to bat for extended periods   typically 75 to 90 minutes during a three-hour net session   he may be considered fit enough to return to the playing XI.

Normally, the swashbuckling opener takes multiple turns at the nets, showcasing his aggressive stroke play and stamina. However, given his recent illness, the team management will closely monitor his energy levels and recovery progress before taking a final call.

Suryakumar Yadav’s Update on Abhishek

At the toss during the Namibia match, India captain Suryakumar Yadav provided an honest update on Abhishek’s condition.

“Abhishek isn’t fine still, might take one or two games,” Suryakumar said, hinting that the opener could remain doubtful for the Pakistan clash.

Earlier in the tournament, Abhishek had featured against the USA despite not being fully fit. His condition worsened during that match, where he was dismissed for a first-ball duck. He did not take the field afterward, with Sanju Samson coming in as a substitute fielder.

India’s Dominant Win Over Namibia

Despite Abhishek’s absence, the Suryakumar Yadav-led side delivered a commanding performance against Namibia. India posted a formidable 209/9 in 20 overs, powered by half-centuries from Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan.

Later, Varun Chakaravarthy picked up three crucial wickets, while Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel chipped in with two each to bowl Namibia out for 116, sealing a massive 93-run victory. This marked India’s second win of the T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.

High-Stakes Showdown Against Pakistan

With momentum on their side, India now turn their attention to the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan. However, Abhishek Sharma’s fitness remains a key talking point.

If he regains full strength and clears extended net sessions in Colombo, fans may see him return to the top order. Otherwise, the team management could opt to rest him for another game to ensure complete recovery.

For now, it remains a waiting game   one that could significantly influence India’s batting combination in one of the tournament’s biggest encounters.