Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy said this Abhishek Sharmawho missed the match against Namibia in Delhi on February 12 with stomach problems, could be in line to play Pakistan in Colombo on February 15.
Abhishek’s time at the tournament has been far from ideal so far. He made his World Cup debut against the USA and walked back with a golden duck after taking deep cover in an attempt to hit a six.
Abhishek failed to run during India’s defense of 161 and was hospitalized due to illness, eventually missing India’s 93-run win against Namibia. However, Chakravarthy responded optimistically when asked about his status, confirming that Abhishek has resumed practice.
“I think he will play the next match,” Varun said after India defeated Namibia. ‘I don’t know. From what I’ve spoken to him, he looks fine. He practiced a bit today. He said he’s on his way.’
Earlier in the day, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav had said that the opening batsman “needs a game or two”, casting doubt on his inclusion against Pakistan.
Meanwhile, in Abhishek’s absence, Sanju Samson was paired with Ishan Kishan to open the innings. Samson made a bright start, racing to 22 from just eight balls with three sixes before chipping one to deep midwicket.
Abhishek’s illness-related absence was just one of the many availability issues India have endured in the tournament so far. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah had to leave the tournament opener against the US in Mumbai with a fever before returning to Delhi.
Moreover, spin all-rounder Washington Sundar was sidelined after sustaining a side strain. He was not with the Mumbai squad but joined Delhi. While Sundar is behind Kuldeep Yadav in the pecking order, he could get a look against Pakistan when the two sides meet in spin-friendly Colombo.
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