India received a timely boost ahead of their T20 World Cup 2026 Group A fixture after opener Abhishek Sharma was discharged from a Delhi hospital following treatment for a stomach infection. However, a final decision on his availability for the Namibia match will be taken on match day.
The 25-year-old left-hander had been admitted earlier this week after his condition worsened following India’s opening game against the USA.
Abhishek, currently ranked as the No. 1 T20I batter, struggled in that match and was dismissed for a duck. He did not take the field during the USA’s chase, raising immediate concerns about his fitness.
Teammate Tilak Varma confirmed that Abhishek has now been discharged and is recovering well. The team management remains hopeful but cautious, especially with a bigger fixture against Pakistan scheduled shortly after the Namibia encounter.
Abhishek was already feeling unwell during the USA match and even left a team gathering early. The evening, where Gautam Gambhir hosted a dinner for the Indian squad in Delhi, was meant to boost team bonding ahead of the crucial T20 World Cup 2026 fixtures.
However, Abhishek’s early exit from the event raised initial concerns about his fitness. He later missed a training session as well, signaling that the medical team did not want to rush his recovery.
A stomach infection can significantly impact stamina and match endurance, particularly in high-intensity T20 cricket.
With India’s campaign just beginning, management is prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term risk. If required, Sanju Samson is ready as a backup option, having spent extended time in the nets with the coaching staff.
India will face Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, but the focus may already be shifting toward the upcoming high-profile clash against Pakistan.
The management is keen to ensure that Abhishek regains full fitness before making his comeback.
For now, his discharge brings relief to fans and selectors alike. Whether he returns immediately or is rested as a precaution, Abhishek Sharma’s fitness will remain a key talking point as India pushes forward in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
