Abhishek Sharma in hospital – Latest on his recovery and Indian networks
In Abhishek’s absence, Sanju Samson could emerge as an option to open the innings for India alongside Ishan Kishan.TimesofIndia.com learned that on February 6, after a clean session at the Wankhede Stadium, Abhishek ate something in Mumbai that caused a stomach upset. On the day of the match, his condition worsened but the batsman decided to continue and play the game.However, his stay in the crease lasted only one ball. He wasn’t seen sitting in the dugout the entire game and didn’t come out to shake hands with Team USA after the 29-run win. It was found that the stomach infection worsened and led to a high fever.The southpaw traveled with the team to New Delhi where his condition continued to deteriorate. Over the past few weeks, the Indian team has played matches in Nagpur, Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Thiruvananthapuram and then Mumbai, all hotter places compared to Delhi. As winter draws to a close in northern India, mornings and evenings remain chilly and the sudden change in weather hasn’t helped the cause of the devastating Indian batter.After suffering drastic weight loss due to dehydration and fluid loss, Abhishek was admitted to Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi.Abhishek did not travel with the Indian team for training on Wednesday.“Abhi (Abhishek) still has a few problems with his stomach. We hope he will be available for the match in two days,” India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate told a press conference.“More than anything, we’re waiting on Abhi’s fitness and that will again open up a few different combinations,” the Doeschate added.However, due to the drastic weight loss, the team management decided not to take any chances and Abhishek will not feature in the Namibia match.It is also learned that Abhishek Sharma has called his personal coach to Delhi who will stay with him before the team leaves for the India vs Pakistan match in Colombo on February 15.