T20 World Cup 2026: Abhishek Sharma will play against Pakistan, confirms Suryakumar Yadav

India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that swashbuckling opener Abhishek Sharma will play the match against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday, February 15. The left-hander had suffered a stomach infection and played the game against the USA with illness last Saturday. Subsequently, the Punjab batter missed out of the playing XI against Namibia on February 12 in Delhi.

Between the two matches, Abhishek was admitted to a hospital in the capital for treatment. He was discharged before the Namibia game, but was not drafted into the XI. As a matter of fact, the 25-year-old was seen on the team balcony at the Arun Jaitley Stadium looking in good shape.

Given the signs leading up to the press conference today in which Suryakumar revealed the news about Abhishek, it seemed most likely that the left-hander would play the all-important clash. India would be relieved with the development around him as the youngster is a key player at the top of the order. However, only time will tell if it will be a fully fit Abhishek or a toned down version in some respects.

I really hope he plays tomorrow: Salman Ali Agha

Around three hours before Suryakumar informed of Abhishek's status for tomorrow's match, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha fronted the media where he expressed that he hoped Abhishek was fit and would play the match against his team. Agha praised the left-hander and indicated his willingness to play against the strongest Indian XI.

“I really hope. We all know he's a good player and I really hope he plays tomorrow because we want to play against the best team they have, and I really hope he is recovering well and can play tomorrow," said Agha during the pre-match press conference.

Suryakumar, when told about what Agha said, responded by saying that his team will play Abhishek if the Pakistan skipper wants it.

“Chalo theek hai (Well, alright). If he (Agha) wants us to play him (Abhishek) tomorrow, we will do so. Done," Suryakumar said.

The match begins at 7pm Colombo time but rain or wet outfield may delay the start.