Watch: Abhishek Sharma shares big health update ahead of IND vs PAK clash in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

Ahead of the India–Pakistan match in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, star opener Abhishek Sharma has shared a health update after missing India’s last group match. He did not play in the Group A game against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi because of a serious stomach infection. He had earlier played against the USA in Mumbai but he was not fully fit.

According to a report by NDTV, the 25-year-old lost nearly 2 kilograms during his illness. He was discharged before the Namibia match and was present at the stadium, but he did not train. He is still feeling weak, and his stamina is being checked as he slowly regains strength.

In a recent vlog by Arshdeep Singh, Abhishek said he is eating only dal and rice as part of his recovery plan. He also said that he lost weight during his time in the hospital. 

Watch the video below.

Abhishek Sharma Still Not Fully Fit

Abhishek Sharma was out for a first-ball duck in the match against the USA. After that, he did not return to the field. Sanju Samson came in as a substitute. Soon after the game, Abhishek was admitted to the hospital for two days due to acute gastroenteritis and dehydration.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav said at the toss against Namibia, “Abhishek isn’t fine still, might take one or two games.” This shows that the team may not bring him back too soon. His absence could be important for India. The left-handed batter has been in very good form and has played well against Pakistan before. In the Asia Cup 2025, he scored 110 runs in three matches against them with a strike rate of 189.

India Beat Namibia Before Pakistan Clash

India go into the Pakistan match after a 93-run win over Namibia. Half-centuries from Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan helped India reach 209/9. Later, Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Hardik took key wickets to seal the win with the ball.