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India opener Abhishek Sharma missed the T20 World Cup 2026 clash as he is still recovering from a stomach issue. Abhishek was struggling in Mumbai when India played in their campaign opener against USA and did not turn up for fielding. In Delhi, he was hospitalised but couldn’t recover in time for Namibia match. As India registered two consecutive wins and get ready for the Pakistan challenge at R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Before heading to Sri Lanka, Abhishek thanked his fans for their support in tough times.
“The support I’ve felt during this time has been overwhelming in the best way. Truly thankful to each one of you,” Abhishek wrote in a post on Instagram.
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Earlier, Abhishek departed for a golden duck on his T20 World Cup debut against USA at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. He did not take the field during USA’s run chase and Sanju Samson came on as substitute fielder. In the game against Namibia, Abhishek sat in the dugout. Samson opened alongside Ishan Kishan and contributed with an eight-ball 22 cameo.
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Teammates’ give update on Abhishek’s progress
Varun Chakravarthy, who claimed three wickets for seven runs from two overs against Namibia, is hopeful of Abhishek’s return to the side for Pakistan game.
"I think he will play the next match. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he is on the way," Varun told broadcasters after the 93-run win over Namibia.
Earlier, skipper Suryakumar Yadav hinted that he isn't sure of Abhishek's participation in the Pakistan game.
“Abhishek is still not fine; he will miss a game or two. Sanju comes in, similar batter, explosive,” Suryakumar said at the coin toss.
Abhishek's record against Pakistan
Abhishek has scored 110 runs from three T20Is against Pakistan at an average of 36.66 and strike rate of 189.65. In T20 Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours game, he scored a quickfire 39-ball 74 in the successful run chase against Agha's men in Dubai. However, this will be the first time Abhishek will be playing a T20I on Sri Lankan soil.
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