How PCB, ICC, BCB reach resolution on T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan
He conceded that Pakistan may have a slight advantage having already been in Colombo for two weeks, but India is focused on giving their best performance. “It will be a challenge going to Colombo where Pakistan have been for the last two weeks and we are fully focused on bringing our best game next week,” he told reporters. With India playing Namibia on February 12 in their second encounter of the ongoing T20 World Cup, the clarity of Pakistan’s participation means that both teams can treat the match purely as a sports match. Meanwhile, Indian opener Abhishek Sharma missed the team’s first practice session in Delhi due to illness and stomach problems, raising doubts over his availability for the match in Namibia. He got off to a poor start to the tournament with a golden duck against the USA and did not feature in that match as he was replaced by Sanju Samson. At a team dinner hosted by coach Gautam Gambhir, Abhishek left early, which contributed to his health problems. “Abhi (Abhishek Sharma) still has a few problems with his tummy but we hope he will be available for the game in two days. Bumrah is also feeling and moving much better,” he said on Tuesday. Jasprit Bumrah also missed the USA match due to illness. India may rest Abhishek to ensure he is fully fit for the match against Pakistan, with Sanju Samson possibly coming in his place. Abhishek is seen as a key player due to his explosive T20 batting and despite his early failure, the team values his influence. India still beat USA by 29 runs thanks to Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 84 and strong bowling from Siraj and Arshdeep Singh.