Abhishek Sharma Cleared for India vs Pakistan World Cup Clash as Father Watches On
COLOMBO — Eight years after refusing to travel to New Zealand for the U-19 World Cup, Rajkumar Sharma has arrived at the R Premadasa Stadium. His presence marks the fulfillment of a pledge made by his son, Abhishek Sharma, in 2018. The Indian opener had vowed that his father would only watch him play live once he represented India in a senior World Cup.
“I did break his heart [in 2018], but I also gave him a goal in life,” Rajkumar Sharma told reporters. “I challenged him that the day he plays for India in a senior World Cup… I will travel wherever the venue is.”
Recovery from Severe Illness
The road to this emotional milestone was complicated by a health scare that threatened Abhishek’s participation in the tournament. After playing through a stomach infection against the USA in Mumbai, his condition deteriorated upon landing in Delhi for the match against Namibia. The illness required hospitalization and resulted in significant weight loss.
Despite his family’s initial plans to cancel their trip to Colombo, Abhishek insisted he would recover in time for the high-stakes match against Pakistan on February 15. Following his discharge, he underwent a rigorous net session, facing both pace and spin to prove his fitness.
Captains Confirm Availability
India captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed the speculation surrounding the opener’s return during a pre-match press conference. “If he wants to play, then we’ll play him tomorrow. Done,” Yadav said. “If the opposing team’s captain is saying it will be good if Abhishek Sharma plays, then let’s play him.”
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha also expressed a desire to face India at full strength. “We want to play against the best team they have. I really hope he is recovering well,” Agha stated.
Abhishek Sharma: T20I Career Overview
Since his debut in July 2024, Sharma has established himself as a dominant force in the shortest format. His aggressive approach has yielded exceptional numbers ahead of the Colombo fixture.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 39 |
| Runs Scored | 1,297 |
| Strike Rate | 194.45 |
| Centuries | 2 |
| Average | 36.02 |
For detailed player profiles and tournament statistics, visit the official ICC website or BCCI.tv.
Critics and Expectations
While Sharma’s strike rate is lauded, his high-risk technique continues to draw scrutiny. Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir criticized the batter’s defensive capabilities on a television program.
“He is a slogger… A player who cannot judge the line and defend the ball properly,” Amir argued. “The day he learns to handle tough lines and defend properly, I will change my opinion. You are playing on small grounds and flat wickets.”
Conversely, Rajkumar Sharma admits his son’s aggressive style causes him anxiety but acknowledges its effectiveness. “I have told him so many times, ‘Kaake single bhi le’ (take singles as well). Now I have given up… this approach has brought him so many blessings,” he said.
As India prepares to take the field, the match represents more than a group stage fixture; it is the realization of a teenage promise and a test of resilience against India’s arch-rivals.
- Match: India vs Pakistan
- Date: February 15
- Venue: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Follow live updates on ESPNcricinfo.