IND vs PAK: Abhishek Sharma Fitness Test Today Before High-Voltage Match

Indian explosive opening batsman Abhishek Sharma is scheduled to undergo a mandatory fitness test on the evening of February 14, just a day before the high-stakes encounter against Pakistan. According to team officials, Sharma arrived in Colombo with the squad on the night of February 13. The match is set to take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 15, and his participation hinges entirely on the results of today's medical evaluation.

Stomach Infection and Absence Against Namibia

Abhishek Sharma was forced to sit out of India's previous match against Namibia on February 12 due to a severe stomach infection. Although he was present in the dressing room during that fixture, he wasn't deemed fit to take the field, while in his absence, the team management opted for Sanju Samson to open the innings alongside Ishan Kishan. His arrival in Colombo on Tuesday night has provided a glimmer of hope for the team management regarding his recovery.

Training Session and Evaluation at R. Premadasa

The Indian cricket team is scheduled to conduct a rigorous training session starting at 6:00 PM on February 14 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. This session will serve as the primary ground for Abhishek Sharma's fitness test. Medical staff will monitor his agility, batting endurance, and sprinting capabilities. The final decision on his inclusion in the playing XI for the Pakistan match will be made immediately following this assessment by the coaching staff and physiotherapists.

Arrival of Parents in Colombo

In a significant personal development, Abhishek Sharma's parents have arrived in Colombo to support him and the Indian team ahead of the crucial clash. They had previously traveled to Dubai during the Asia Cup to cheer for the national side. The presence of family members is often seen as a morale booster for players facing injury concerns before major international assignments, while all eyes will be on whether the young opener can clear the medical hurdles today.

Alternative Opening Combinations for India

Should Abhishek Sharma fail the fitness test, the Indian team management has prepared contingency plans, while sanju Samson, who opened against Namibia, showed glimpses of brilliance by scoring 22 runs off just 8 balls, including three sixes and a boundary. Another option involves promoting a fit-again Washington Sundar to the top order to partner with Ishan Kishan. Kishan's current form is a major positive for India, ensuring stability at one end of the crease regardless of the opening partner.

Squad Adjustments and Tactical Considerations

Beyond the opening slot, the team is also evaluating the middle-order composition. There are discussions regarding Rinku Singh's current rhythm, as he has struggled to find his usual timing in recent outings. Washington Sundar could potentially replace Rinku Singh to provide an additional bowling option and left-handed batting depth. The final team sheet will be determined based on the balance required to tackle the Pakistani bowling attack under lights in Colombo.