Abhishek Sharma, Team India’s explosive opening batter, has been admitted to a private hospital in Delhi after his condition worsened over the last 24 hours. The left-hander is suffering from a persistent stomach infection and a high fever, according to sources working for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Timeline of the Illness
Abhishek was reportedly unwell even before India’s tournament opener against the USA on February 7. Feeling uncomfortable, he made it onto the field though he was dismissed for a golden duck. He reportedly got very sick later that day, which led to him not participating in post-match handshakes or the team's second-innings fielding duties.
Abhishek, after attending a dinner organized by head coach Gautam Gambhir on Sunday, February 8, was seen leaving early as he continued to battle with his health. And, on Monday night, he was hospitalized for specialized care and medical testing.
The Management's View
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate admitted the same during a media chat at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. “Abhi still has some issues with his tummy. We are thinking that he will be available for the game in two days, but we are more interested in his fitness than anything,” ten Doeschate told reporters.
The team is said to be wary and may rest Abhishek at the February 12 match against Namibia so that he is 100% ready for the high-voltage clash with Pakistan at Colombo on February 15.
Possible Replacements
When Abhishek appeared out of all the practice nets on Tuesday, Sanju Samson was the first to strike. Assuming Abhishek is excluded, Samson will also be the strongest candidate for starting the innings alongside Ishan Kishan. Samson appeared slightly scratchy during the session and received treatment on his left arm, but he is India's one option that can go through the top order as an alternate player if needed.
