as Team India landed in Colombo for the long awaited T20 World Cup 2026 clash against Pakistan On February 15, all eyes were on one man – Abhishek Sharma. The explosive left-hander, who has become a vital cog in India’s T20 setup, recently battled a severe stomach infection that briefly cast doubt on his availability for the high-voltage encounter.
Abhishek was admitted to a hospital in Delhi earlier this week after suffering from high fever and dehydration. Reports suggested that he required intravenous fluids and that he had lost nearly two kilograms during the illness, leaving him visibly weakened. The setback forced him to miss India’s group stage match against Namibia on February 12, causing concern among fans and the team management.
Abhishek Sharma gives health update ahead of IND vs PAK clash
However, recent images from Colombo have brought relief. Abhishek traveled with the team and continued light training. Although he has yet to confirm full compliance status, the signs are promising.
In a light-hearted video shared by the IPL franchise, Punjab Kings (PBKS)teammate Arshdeep Singh seems to ask him “How are you?”
With a smile that reassured millions, Abhishek replied: “Daal-rice, very good, me? Good.”
The franchise commented on the clip: ‘Daal-rice khao, jaldi theek ho jaao!’ – a playful nod to her recovery diet.
Daal-rice khao, jaldi theek ho jaao! 😂🫶 pic.twitter.com/aKEpKCw08G
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 13, 2026
The brief exchange may have been humorous, but it conveyed a deeper message – the star opener has recovered and is in good spirits against some of cricket’s fiercest competition.
Also READ: Mohammad Amir mocks sick Abhishek Sharma ahead of IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 clash
Abhishek: India’s in-form T20 superstar
Abhishek’s presence in the XI could be crucial. Under India’s T20 World Cup triumph Rohit Sharma In 2024, the youngster consolidated his place at the top of the order. In just 38 T20Is (37 innings), he amassed 1297 runs at an impressive average of 37.05. However, what sets him apart is his breathtaking strike rate of 194.74 – a figure that highlights his aggressive approach in the power game.
The southpaw has already scored two centuries and eight half-centuries and the highest score was 135. Entering the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as the top-ranked T20I batsman in the world, Abhishek carries both form and expectations on his shoulders.
He was equally effective against Pakistan. In three matches, he scored 110 runs at an average of 36.66 and a strike rate of close to 190, including 74 showing his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks.
