India’s T20 World Cup campaign has hit a snag as opening batter Abhishek Sharma was hospitalized in Delhi due to a persistent stomach infection. With the match against Namibia scheduled for Thursday, the young opener’s participation is now under a cloud of uncertainty.
According to a BCCI source, Sharma has been under medical care for the past 48 hours. While tests are currently being conducted to determine the severity of the infection, his availability for the upcoming clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium remains highly doubtful. This news follows a disappointing tournament opener for Sharma, who was dismissed for a first-ball duck during India’s victory against the USA.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had previously hinted at the issue after Sharma failed to take the field during the second innings of the USA game. Although the team management was initially optimistic about a quick recovery, the transition from a “stomach bug” to hospitalization suggests a more stubborn ailment.
Sanju Samson or Ishan Kishan: India’s Opening Dilemma
If Abhishek Sharma is ruled out, the Indian team management faces a significant selection headache regarding who should partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. The primary contender for the spot is Sanju Samson, though his recent form has been a point of contention. Samson was recently sidelined in favor of Ishan Kishan during the New Zealand series following a string of low scores.
Ten Doeschate noted that Sharma’s fitness is the “linchpin” for India’s tactical setup. A change at the top could trigger a shuffle in the middle order, especially with the need to balance the wicketkeeping duties and the powerplay strike rate. The team is expected to make a final call on the opening combination after a final fitness assessment on Thursday morning.
Boost for India: Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar Cleared for Action
While the batting department faces some turbulence, the bowling unit has received a massive boost. Speedster Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the opening game against the USA due to an untimely illness, is set to return to the playing XI. Bumrah was seen bowling at full throttle during Tuesday’s practice session in Delhi, signaling he is back to peak match fitness.
Adding to the positive news, all-rounder Washington Sundar has officially joined the squad. Sundar had been sidelined with a side tear suffered during the New Zealand series but looked sharp in the nets, contributing with both bat and ball. His return provides India with much-needed depth and a spin-bowling option who can contribute valuable runs in the lower order.
