India opener Abhishek Sharma is unlikely to feature in the team’s second T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia after being hospitalised with a stomach infection, casting uncertainty over the batting combination ahead of Thursday’s clash in New Delhi.
The 23-year-old left-hander missed India’s first training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday and has reportedly been under medical supervision for the past two days. According to team sources, Abhishek was admitted to a private hospital in Delhi after his condition worsened. Doctors are conducting tests to determine the exact cause and severity of the infection.
Abhishek had been feeling unwell even before India’s tournament opener against the USA last Sunday. Despite discomfort, he took the field but was dismissed for a duck. He did not return to the ground for the second innings and skipped the customary post-match handshakes, with Sanju Samson stepping in as substitute fielder.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said the team is awaiting clarity on Abhishek’s fitness. “We’re hopeful he’ll recover in time, but we’re waiting on medical updates. His availability will determine our combinations,” he said.
In Abhishek’s absence at practice, Samson was the first to bat in the nets. However, the wicketkeeper-batter appeared scratchy and even required brief treatment on his left arm during the session, adding to India’s selection headache.
A final call on Abhishek’s participation is expected after Wednesday’s training session. With the Super 12 race heating up early in the tournament, India will hope for positive news as they aim to maintain momentum against Namibia.
