Abhishek Sharma Cleared to Play for India
In a major boost for Team India, captain Suryakumar Yadav announced that Abhishek Sharma will be available for selection in the highly anticipated T20 World Cup match against Pakistan. This clash is set to electrify fans as both teams vie for supremacy on the cricketing stage.
Pakistan's Desire to Face the Best
Earlier today, Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, expressed his wish to face India’s strongest lineup, which includes Sharma, the number one T20I batter globally. In his statement to reporters, he said, “I hope Abhishek Sharma plays tomorrow. I hope he is recovering well. We want to play against the best.”
The Road to Recovery
Sharma had been in phenomenal form leading up to the T20 World Cup. However, before India’s opening match against the USA on February 7, he succumbed to illness, suffering from a high fever of 103°F and a stomach bug that left him unable to perform. After a disappointing start with a golden duck, his condition required a hospital stay due to a severe stomach infection.
Timeline of Events Leading to His Recovery
| Date | Event |
|---|
| Feb 6, 2026 | Fell ill before the USA match |
| Feb 7, 2026 | Scored a golden duck and was hospitalized |
| Feb 10, 2026 | Confirmed fit to play by coach Varun Chakaravarthy |
| Feb 14, 2026 | Suryakumar confirms Sharma's availability |
Despite struggling with his health and a significant weight loss during his recovery, Abhishek Sharma made a swift return to fitness.
Sharma’s Role in the Upcoming Match
Commenting on Agha’s statement, Suryakumar chuckled, “If the Pakistan captain wants… we will play him.” The laughter surrounding this exchange highlights the competitive spirit alive between the two teams.
Expected Line-up for the Match
The anticipated playing XI for India includes:
- Ishan Kishan (wk)
- Sanju Samson
- Abhishek Sharma
- Suryakumar Yadav (c)
- Tilak Varma
- Rinku Singh
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel (vc)
- Shivam Dube
- Arshdeep Singh
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Washington Sundar
As the countdown to the T20 World Cup match intensifies, fans eagerly await to see if Abhishek Sharma can showcase his skills against Pakistan.