It’s a tense wait for Indian fans ahead of their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia at New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, as the latest fitness updates bring both relief and a touch of anxiety. The big news: Jasprit Bumrah, the pace spearhead, has been declared fit and ready to return for the crucial clash on February 13 after missing India’s opening win over the USA due to a high fever.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, batter Tilak Varma provided clarity on Bumrah’s status, saying, “Bumrah should be back for the second game. He’s absolutely fine.” Those words will be music to the ears of Indian supporters, given Bumrah’s pivotal role with the ball. He was seen bowling at full tilt in the nets and even took part in catching drills, showing no lingering effects from his illness.
Abhishek Sharma’s Recovery Still Uncertain
If things look up for Bumrah, the situation is more complicated for opener Abhishek Sharma. The young left-hander was hospitalized in Delhi after arriving with a stomach infection and fever. Tilak Varma confirmed, “When we reached Delhi, Abhishek needed examinations. He went to the hospital for the examination. So I think he has been discharged today, and he’s doing well. We have got one more day for the game, so hopefully we’ll decide by tomorrow how he feels, and we’ll go with it.”
The uncertainty around Abhishek means team management will likely make a last-minute call on his inclusion. Should he fail to recover in time, Sanju Samson—despite recent struggles with form—could step in to open alongside Ishan Kishan.
Net Session Drama Adds to Pre-Match Jitters
The pre-game build-up wasn’t without drama. During a net session, Ishan Kishan was struck on the foot by a Bumrah delivery, causing brief discomfort. Kishan managed to return to the nets but cut his session short as a precaution. With match day looming, all eyes remain on the final playing XI and whether India can field their strongest lineup.
As Namibia prepares to face an Indian team buoyed by Bumrah’s return but still sweating over Abhishek Sharma’s fitness, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the T20 World Cup campaign in full swing, every decision counts—and fans will be glued to updates right up to the first ball.
