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Indian opening batter Abhishek Sharma is currently in recovery after a severe stomach infection (acute gastroenteritis) sidelined him during the T20 World Cup 2026. While he has been discharged from the hospital, his participation in the upcoming high-stakes match against Pakistan on February 15 remains “touch and go.”+1
How Did the Infection Occur?
The 25-year-old’s health struggles began during the tournament opener against the USA in Mumbai on February 7.
- The Trigger: Reports suggest Sharma consumed something that triggered a stomach upset following a net session at Wankhede Stadium on February 6.
- The Struggle: Despite running a high temperature, he played against the USA but was dismissed for a golden duck. His distress was evident as he did not take the field for the second innings and missed the post-match handshakes.+1
- Hospitalization: After the team arrived in Delhi, his condition worsened, leading to a two-day hospital stay where he was administered IV drips for dehydration.
Recovery Diet & Weight Loss
In a recent social media vlog by teammate Arshdeep Singh, Sharma provided a lighthearted yet telling update on his recovery regimen:
- The “Dal Rice” Diet: Sharma confirmed he is sticking to a simple, bland diet of dal (lentils) and rice. This “BRAT-style” approach (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is standard for recovering from gastroenteritis to avoid taxing the digestive system.+1
- Significant Weight Loss: The infection has taken a physical toll, with Sharma revealing he has lost “a few kilograms” (reportedly around 2kg) due to the illness and dehydration.
Will He Play Against Pakistan?
Captain Suryakumar Yadav and the medical team are taking a cautious approach.
“Abhishek is still not fine, he will miss a game or two.” — Suryakumar Yadav at the Namibia toss.+1
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- Current Status: He was rested for the Namibia clash on February 12.
- The Decider: While mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy noted that Sharma looked “good” during light practice on Friday, his final clearance for the Pakistan game in Colombo depends on his ability to sustain a full-intensity net session on Saturday.