New Delhi, Feb 11 (.) India’s plans for their second T20 World Cup 2026 game against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here hinge on the fitness of opener Abhishek Sharma and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Sharma, who was hospitalised due to a stomach issue after his golden duck against the USA, has been discharged, but the team management will take a final call on his availability just before the match.
On the eve of the game, teammate Tilak Varma confirmed that Sharma is doing well since leaving the hospital but did not commit to his inclusion in the playing XI. “Abhishek went to the hospital, he went to get some tests done, and has been discharged now. He is doing well. We will decide how he feels tomorrow and take a call on the game,” Varma said.
India’s premier pacer Bumrah, who missed the campaign opener against the USA on Wednesday, is “absolutely fine now” and could be back for the Namibia clash. “He is absolutely fine now. He is doing better. As I said, we still have one more day, so hopefully he will be back in the team. If he continues to improve, the team management will take a call, and I think he could be back for the second game,” Varma added.
If Sharma is ruled out, Sanju Samson is expected to replace him, likely opening alongside Ishan Kishan.
Varma also expressed his excitement at playing the World Cup at home. “I am really happy to be back for the World Cup. I worked hard to gain fitness and want to win the World Cup for India,” he said.
India’s clash with Namibia will be crucial as they prepare for the marquee encounter against Pakistan on Sunday, February 15.
. . .