India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has suffered a major setback after opener Abhishek Sharma was admitted to a hospital in Delhi due to a stomach infection, just days before the crucial Group A clash against Namibia.
The development comes at a sensitive time for Team India, with back-to-back matches lined up in the tournament.
According to sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Abhishek was hospitalised on Monday after complaining of severe stomach discomfort.
Medical tests are currently underway, and his availability for the Namibia match on February 12 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium remains uncertain.
Abhishek, who is currently the No. 1-ranked T20I batter, had a forgettable outing in India’s opening match against the USA, where he was dismissed for a first-ball duck. He also did not take the field during the second innings of that match, raising early concerns about his fitness.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the situation during a press conference, stating that the team management remains hopeful of Abhishek’s recovery in time.
However, reports suggest that additional medical assessments may rule him out of the Namibia fixture as a precautionary measure.
The 25-year-old has been one of India’s most consistent performers in the shortest format since making his international debut in 2024.
In 39 T20Is, Abhishek has amassed 1297 runs, including two centuries and eight half-centuries, establishing himself as a key figure at the top of the order.
His impact was particularly evident during the Asia Cup 2025, where he played a decisive role in India’s victories over Pakistan.
Abhishek scored 110 runs across three matches against the arch-rivals at a striking rate close to 190, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure games.
Despite the setback, the Indian team management is optimistic that Abhishek will be fit for the marquee clash against Pakistan, scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15.
Sources indicated that the opener briefly attended a team dinner hosted by head coach Gautam Gambhir, though he returned early due to health concerns.
India, the defending champions and top-ranked side in white-ball cricket, began their campaign with a 29-run win over the USA, thanks to a recovery knock from Suryakumar Yadav and a strong bowling effort led by Mohammed Siraj.
With the tournament entering a crucial phase, Abhishek Sharma’s fitness will be closely monitored over the coming days.
