New Delhi: India batter Tilak Varma has confirmed that teammate Abhishek Sharma has been discharged from the hospital after being treated for a stomach infection, with a final decision on his availability for the upcoming match against Namibia to be taken on match day.
Abhishek had been admitted to hospital on Monday after suffering from a stomach bug and subsequently missed a training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday evening. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had earlier confirmed the illness during a press conference.
Speaking ahead of the game in Delhi, Tilak provided an encouraging update. “When we reached Delhi, he went to the hospital for examination. He was discharged today and is doing well. We still have one more day before the game. Hopefully, we will decide tomorrow based on how he feels,” Tilak said.
The team also received positive news regarding pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Tilak stated that Bumrah is “absolutely fine” and recovering well, though his participation in Thursday’s game will depend on the team management’s final call.
“He is doing better now. We have one more day, and hopefully, he will be back in the team. If he continues to improve, the team will take the decision. I think he will be back for the second game,” Tilak added.
Looking ahead, the Indian squad is already focused on the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan, scheduled to be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 15. Tilak expressed excitement about the high-stakes encounter, saying the team is fully prepared.
“To be honest, we are very excited to play. We found out about the match two days ago and are ready. We are closely watching how other teams are performing. As batters, we are observing the bowlers, and the bowling group is studying opposition batters. The preparation is on, and we are well prepared,” he said.
With fitness concerns easing and preparations in full swing, India appears ready for both the Namibia fixture and the high-octane showdown against Pakistan.
