The T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Namibia on New Delhi’s Thursday will not feature Abhishek Sharma because of his absence. Abhishek didn’t play because he was discharged from the hospital after two days of treatment for his stomach infection. India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed at the toss that the southpaw would miss several games which created uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming Pakistan match scheduled for Sunday in Colombo.
“Our team maintains success because we win matches despite losing tosses. The tournament will be affected by dew which will create major challenges. Our team will gain confidence through our success in defending during dew conditions. Our batters need to provide exciting performance that will please the audience. Abhishek needs one to two games for recovery which he requires. Samson comes in. Bumrah comes in for Siraj,” said Suryakumar at the toss.
Abhishek scored no runs against the USA during the first match which took place on Saturday in Mumbai and he did not return to play after being substituted by Sanju Samson during fielding.
He became sick during the match which caused his health to decline after arriving in Delhi.
India made two changes to the side that beat the USA on the opening day of the tournament. Sanju Samson replaced Abhishek, while Jasprit Bumrah replaced Mohammed Siraj in the India XI.
For Namibia, Ben Shikongo and Malan Kruger are playing in place of Dylan Leicher Leicher and Willem Myburgh respectively.
India will face Pakistan next because the team plans to travel to Colombo for their February 15 match.
