"Devastatingly bad news is about to be revealed for India."

India’s preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup have hit an early snag, with concerns growing over the fitness of opener Abhishek Sharma ahead of their second group match. India is set to face Namibia on 12 February in New Delhi, but Sharma’s participation now hangs in the balance after he was absent from the team’s first practice session on Tuesday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

According to reports, Sharma has been admitted to hospital due to a stomach infection, rendering his availability for the Namibia encounter uncertain. Medical sources indicate that the infection is more serious than initially reported, significantly reducing his chances of taking the field.

Sharma had also battled illness prior to India’s opening match against the United States. His condition worsened after that game, during which he was dismissed for a duck and did not feature in the second innings. Sanju Samson replaced him as a substitute fielder, and Sharma was notably absent from post-match handshakes.

During India’s opening match at Wankhede Stadium, Sharma reportedly played with a fever and required intravenous fluids for relief. Initially, the team described his condition as a minor stomach upset. However, subsequent reports suggest the infection is severe, leaving medical staff cautious about rushing him back onto the field.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Descat commented:
"Abhishek’s stomach issues have not fully resolved yet. We are hopeful he will be fit to play within the next two days."

Despite his illness, Sharma travelled with the team to New Delhi. Observers noted that over the past 24 hours his physical condition has deteriorated. He had also attended a special team dinner at head coach Gautam Gambhir’s residence on 8 February, but no assurances on his fitness could be made.

Sharma’s absence was felt during Tuesday’s practice, with Samson taking the nets in his place. Samson, who struggled to find form during the recent New Zealand series, appeared uncomfortable facing bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya, even receiving treatment on his left hand during the session.

Ten Descat added:
"Our primary focus remains on Abhishek’s fitness. Once we know his condition, we can finalise the team combination."

The final assessment of Sharma’s availability is expected following India’s last practice session in Delhi on Wednesday, which will provide a clearer picture for team selection.

Abhishek Sharma – Key Health and Match Status

India’s management will monitor Sharma closely in the coming 24 hours to determine whether he can line up against Namibia or if the team will need to adjust their opening combination.