India started their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026 with a win against the USA. Now, Team India has to play their second match against Namibia, which will be held on February 12 at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium. However, it seems doubtful that opener Abhishek Sharma will play in this match, as he had to be hospitalized due to a stomach infection.

In the match against the USA, Abhishek Sharma couldn't even open his account and got out for a golden duck. However, it was revealed after the match that he had a high fever. Now, it has come to light that he has an infection in his stomach. For this reason, it seems quite difficult for the left-handed opening batter to play against Namibia.

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No decision has been made yet regarding Abhishek Sharma playing against Namibia. If Abhishek is not available for the match, then India will have to look for an opening partner for Ishan Kishan. In such a case, we are going to tell you about 3 opening combinations that Team India can field against Namibia.

India may try these 3 opening combinations against Namibia in the absence of Abhishek Sharma

1. Ishan kishan and Sanju Samson

Ishan Kishan secured his place in the playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2026 by scoring over 200 runs in the T20 series against New Zealand, and Sanju Samson had to bear the consequences. Sanju did not play a single big innings throughout the series, which is why India gave Ishan a chance as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma against the USA. However, there is now uncertainty over Abhishek playing, and if he is out, Sanju could be given a chance, who had scored three centuries while opening. 

2. Ishan Kishan and Washington Sundar

If the Indian team does not want to give Sanju Samson a chance, then in this case, spin all-rounder Washington Sundar could make it to the playing 11, and he may be seen as Ishan Kishan's opening partner against Namibia. Sundar could not play the T20 series against New Zealand due to injury, but now he has fully recovered and joined the team. Sending Sundar as an opener could allow him to bat aggressively as a floater. At the same time, his inclusion will also strengthen the bowling department.

3. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav

Team India could have a third option for the opening combination with Ishan Kishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav. By starting the innings with Ishan, Suryakumar can capitalize on his good form to put pressure on Namibia's bowlers. Opening will not be new for Suryakumar, as he has previously played this role. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar can be included in the playing XI in place of Abhishek Sharma, and India can use him in the middle or lower order as needed for batting.