IND vs PAK Playing 11: Abhishek Sharma to play against Pakistan, says Surya

India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Friday confirmed that batter Abhishek Sharma will return to the playing 11 for the high-voltage clash against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15, putting to rest doubts over the opener’s fitness after he was hospitalised in Delhi few days ago.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the much-anticipated fixture at the R Premadasa Stadium, Suryakumar said Abhishek would be available for selection after recovering well and taking part in training sessions in Sri Lanka.

Abhishek had missed India’s previous match against Namibia due to health concerns, with the team management opting not to risk him. However, he has since resumed practice and is understood to have looked comfortable during training in Colombo.

Suryakumar, in his trademark light-hearted style, also referenced Pakistan captain’s remark earlier in the day that he hoped Abhishek would play the game.

“If he wants him to play, then we’ll play him tomorrow. Done,” Suryakumar said, drawing laughter from the media.

When asked again if Abhishek would definitely feature in the playing 11, the India skipper reiterated the decision.

“Someone said the opposing team’s captain said it’ll be good if Abhishek Sharma plays. So I said, let’s make him play. So I say the same thing, let’s play him. No problem,” he said.

India’s decision to bring back Abhishek is expected to strengthen their batting line-up, with the left-hander known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order. His inclusion could be a key factor in a match where early momentum is likely to set the tone. 

Suryakumar was also asked whether the atmosphere around India’s matches against Pakistan had changed since the Asia Cup a few months ago. The skipper said the team environment remained positive and unchanged, stressing that what fans see on the field is shaped by what happens behind the scenes.

“The environment starts from the dressing room, from the players, from inside, from the bus. What you see on the ground is a by-product,” he said.

“How we spend time in the practice session, we go to watch a movie together, we eat together. We spend a good time. But the environment is very good. It’s the same atmosphere,” Suryakumar added.

The India-Pakistan contest is expected to draw massive attention, with both teams eyeing a crucial result in the tournament.