India spinner Varun Chakravarthy has offered a timely fitness update on opener Abhishek Sharma, hinting that the left-hander could be in contention for India’s high-voltage clash against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15. Abhishek missed the Namibia game in Delhi after being hospitalised with a stomach infection, but signs of recovery have lifted the mood in the Indian camp.

Abhishek’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has started on a frustrating note. On debut against the United States of America, he fell for a golden duck while attempting an ambitious lofted shot. The illness that followed ruled him out of India’s 93-run win over Namibia, raising questions over his availability for the marquee India vs Pakistan encounter.

ALSO READ: Suryakumar Yadav Hails Dominant India Win Over Namibia In T20 World Cup 2026

Speaking after the Namibia win, Varun Chakravarthy sounded optimistic. “As far as I’ve spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he’s on the way,” the mystery spinner said, adding that a final call will depend on how Abhishek pulls up over the next 48 hours. Earlier, India captain Suryakumar Yadav had cautioned that the opener “might take a game or two,” keeping the selection call finely balanced.

🚨 VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY ON ABHISHEK SHARMA 🚨

🗣️ : I think he will play the next match. I don’t know. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he is on the way. pic.twitter.com/by2wO5jLbR

— Maina Singh (@Maina_Singhx77) February 13, 2026

In Abhishek’s absence, Sanju Samson opened alongside Ishan Kishan, providing brisk starts in the powerplay. India’s availability concerns haven’t ended there. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah recently recovered from a fever, while all-rounder Washington Sundar is managing a side strain and remains behind Kuldeep Yadav in the spin pecking order.

WATCH – Ravichandran Ashwin’s Bold Suggestion: How India Could “Pull Out” To Unsettle Usman Tariq

With Colombo expected to aid spin, India’s think tank faces a key call: fast-track Abhishek’s return for firepower up top, or stick with the in-form combination. The final XI could shape India’s momentum heading into the tournament-defining Pakistan clash.