Abhishek Sharma Down with Stomach Infection, Doubtful for India’s World Cup Match

India's 2026 T20 World Cup campaign has been jolted by an early crisis, with Abhishek Sharma's participation suddenly in doubt as the opener remains hospitalised in Delhi with a stomach infection. Just days into the tournament, Abhishek Sharma has gone from being a key figure at the top of India's batting order to the biggest question mark in the dressing room.

Abhishek Sharma was notably absent from India's training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a development that quickly set off alarm bells within the squad. Soon after, it was confirmed that Abhishek Sharma had been admitted to a private hospital in the capital and placed under close medical observation, with India now racing against time ahead of their Group clash against Namibia on February 12.

The concerns trace back to Mumbai, where Abhishek Sharma forced himself onto the field despite feeling unwell before India's tournament opener against the USA. Determined to push through the discomfort, Abhishek Sharma opened the batting but was dismissed for a duck. Moments later, he walked off the field and did not return, as Sanju Samson stepped in during the American chase.

What initially appeared to be a manageable issue soon escalated. Abhishek Sharma reportedly battled a high fever during the match and required immediate medical treatment afterward. While the team management initially described the condition as a minor stomach problem, further tests in Delhi have revealed a more serious infection, placing Abhishek Sharma's World Cup involvement under a growing shadow.

BCCI On Abhishek Sharma Health

A senior BCCI official confirmed that Abhishek Sharma's recovery timeline remains uncertain, with doctors still conducting tests to determine the severity of the infection. With limited turnaround time between matches, India are already weighing alternative combinations should Abhishek Sharma fail to receive medical clearance in time.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate attempted to strike an optimistic note but stopped short of offering assurances. "Abhishek Sharma still has a few issues with his stomach. We're hopeful he'll be available in the next couple of days," he said, underlining the fine line between hope and reality at a major tournament.

Abhishek Sharma Attended Dinner At Gautam Gambhir's House

Abhishek Sharma had travelled with the squad to Delhi and even attended a team dinner hosted by head coach Gautam Gambhir on February 8, a moment that suggested his condition was stabilising. Instead, within 24 hours, his health worsened, ruling him out of practice and leading to hospitalisation.

As India prepare for the Namibia match, the broader World Cup narrative sharpens. The tournament offers no pause, no margin for delay. For Abhishek Sharma, the battle has shifted away from the pitch - from timing and footwork to recovery and resilience - while India wait, watching the clock and hoping their opener can return before the World Cup moves on without him.