India's star opener Abhishek Sharma is yet to return to full fitness as they begin preparations for the Namibia clash. Abhishek did not take the field in the IND vs USA game citing an upset stomach and did not attend training at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday. Later, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Abhishek still had an upset stomach.
"Abhi (Abhishek Sharma) has still got a few issues with his tummy, but we are hopeful he will be available for the game in two days time," Doeschate said in his press conference.
Abhishek was out on a first ball duck in India's opening fixture of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The left-hander was caught at deep cover in the game against the USA. In the second innings, Abhishek did not take the field. Suryakumar later after the match confirmed that he was under the weather.
Abhishek is crucial to India's chances and has set the template for the Men in Blue's dominance in the shortest format. India had a rest day on Monday having arrived in Delhi on Sunday. The team enjoyed a bonding dinner at head coach Gautam Gambhir's residence.
Should Sharma not recover in time for the IND vs NAM game, India have Sanju Samson in their ranks.
Abhishek was the latest injury/illness concern for India in their bid to retain the T20 World Cup. Tilak Varma underwent only to return just in time for the tournament. Washington Sundar and Jasprit Bumrah both missed the opening fixture at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
“Yes, Washi joined the team yesterday. He will train today. Abhi still has a few issues with his tummy. Booms will bowl today as well. He’s been ten days without bowling, but he’s feeling and moving a lot better. We will see how he goes in training today and tomorrow before getting on the field on Thursday,” ten Doeschate told reporters in a press conference on Wednesday.
