Bold opening: Abhishek Sharma’s family has landed in Colombo, but the big question mark over his availability for India’s clash with Pakistan remains unresolved.
Abhishek Sharma’s parents have arrived in Colombo ahead of India’s much-anticipated T20 World Cup meeting with Pakistan, even as the opener’s fitness for February 15 hangs in the balance. Their presence adds a comforting touch of home to India’s prep, while the team weighs whether Abhishek has fully recovered from a stomach infection.
Abhishek traveled with the Indian squad on Friday, which fuels optimism that he could still be fit for the blockbuster at the R Premadasa Stadium. Yet with only a few days left, India is not willing to rush his recovery.
This developing situation has become one of the World Cup’s most discussed subplots, especially since his tournament so far has been episodic rather than explosive.
WHAT HAPPENED TO ABHISHEK SHARMA?
Abhishek was admitted to hospital in Delhi earlier in the week after contracting a stomach infection, forcing him to miss India’s group-stage match against Namibia. The illness struck at a precarious moment, just as the tournament was gaining steam.
His only appearance so far came in India’s opening win over the USA, where he was dismissed for a golden duck. That premature exit has intensified the desire for a timely return in subsequent games.
Although he has since been discharged from hospital, the emphasis remains on full strength rather than a rushed comeback.
WILL ABHISHEK SHARMA PLAY INDIA VS PAKISTAN?
India awaits a final decision on Abhishek’s fitness before Sunday’s high-stakes showdown. Captain Suryakumar Yadav indicated at the toss against Namibia that the opener would be unavailable for a “game or two,” leaving the Pakistan match’s status uncertain.
Several former cricketers have urged India not to rush him back just for a marquee fixture, reminding fans that the World Cup continues beyond February 15. With the Super 8s and knockouts on the horizon, India will want Abhishek fully ready for the late-stage battles rather than a one-night adrenaline rush.
And India aren’t left with no options. Against Namibia, Sanju Samson opened with Ishan Kishan, and both showed promise. Sanju’s cameo was brief but lively—22 off 8 balls—while Ishan’s 61 off 24 balls included a 20-ball fifty, signaling depth in the top order.
If Abhishek isn’t fit in time, or if the team decides caution is wiser, the top order isn’t suddenly in trouble.
For now, India waits as Abhishek heals, and Colombo braces for a Sunday showdown that might feature one of India’s most explosive openers.
T20 World Cup coverage: schedules, standings, videos and cricket news are available through India Today’s World Cup pages.
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Published By: Debodinna Chakraborty
Published On: Feb 14, 2026
