'I think he will play against Pakistan' - Varun Chakravarthy on Abhishek Sharma's fitness

India spinner Varun Chakravarthy has said that Abhishek Sharma, who missed the clash against Namibia in Delhi on February 12 with a stomach issue, could be in line to play against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15.

Abhishek’s time at the tournament thus far has been far from ideal. He made his World Cup debut against USA and walked back with a golden duck after picking out deep cover in an attempt to hit a six.

Abhishek did not walk out during India’s defence of 161 and was hospitalised with illness, eventually missing India’s 93-run win against Namibia. However, Chakravarthy responded with optimism when asked about his status, confirming that Abhishek has resumed practice.

"I think he will play the next match," Varun said after India beat Namibia. "I don't know. As far as I have spoken to him, he looks good. He did some practice today. He said he is on the way."

Earlier in the day, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav had said that the opening batter “will take a game or two,” casting doubt on his participation against Pakistan.

Meanwhile, in Abhishek’s absence, Sanju Samson was paired with Ishan Kishan to open the innings. Samson made a brisk start, racing to 22 off just eight balls with three sixes before chipping one to deep midwicket.

Abhishek’s illness-enforced absence was only one of the multiple availability issues India has endured in the tournament so far. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah sat out of their tournament opener against USA in Mumbai with a fever before returning in Delhi.

Furthermore, spin all-rounder Washington Sundar has been on the sidelines after picking up a side strain. He was not with the squad in Mumbai but linked up in Delhi. While Sundar is behind Kuldeep Yadav in the pecking order, he could get a look-in against Pakistan as the two sides meet in spin-friendly Colombo.