India’s blockbuster T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan just got a major boost. World No.1 T20I opener Abhishek Sharma is back to full fitness and will feature in Sunday’s much-anticipated showdown at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, putting an end to injury worries ahead of cricket’s biggest rivalry.
The 7 PM local time encounter, which nearly fell apart due to political tensions and boycott threats, now promises full-strength squads and a packed stadium as both teams chase early dominance in Group A.
Abhishek Sharma Cleared to Play After Illness
India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed on Saturday that Abhishek Sharma has recovered from a stomach infection that forced him to miss the Namibia match and briefly required hospitalisation.
“Abhishek Sharma will play tomorrow,” Suryakumar told reporters in Colombo. The skipper added with a smile that if Pakistan wanted India’s strongest XI, they would get it.
Abhishek, currently ranked the No.1 T20I batter in the world, reportedly lost close to two kilograms during the illness but has resumed full training sessions with the squad. Team management is confident he is match-fit and ready for the high-pressure clash.
His return strengthens India’s top order, especially after the team’s dominant 93-run win over Namibia gave them a healthy net run rate boost.
Match Nearly Cancelled Amid Political Drama
The India vs Pakistan fixture almost didn’t happen this year.
On February 1, Pakistan’s government had announced a boycott of the match, citing solidarity with Bangladesh, which was excluded from the tournament. The move created uncertainty around one of the World Cup’s marquee fixtures.
The International Cricket Council quickly stepped in, warning of points forfeiture and financial penalties if Pakistan failed to honour the schedule. What followed were intense negotiations involving the ICC, Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board.
A key meeting in Lahore between PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja and BCB president Aminul Islam helped break the deadlock. By February 9, Pakistan reversed its stance, citing diplomatic outcomes and requests from friendly nations.
Weather Could Play Spoilsport
Even as the political clouds cleared, actual rain clouds now hover over Colombo.
A developing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has meteorologists predicting a 50–70% chance of rain during match hours. Thunderstorms are likely around 6 PM local time, though some forecasts suggest conditions may improve later in the evening.
Sri Lanka’s Department of Meteorology has warned of scattered thunderstorms across the region, leaving organisers and fans keeping a close eye on the skies.
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Sold-Out Stadium, Surging Travel Costs
Despite uncertainty around the fixture and weather, fan interest has been overwhelming.
The 35,000-capacity R. Premadasa Stadium is completely sold out. Travel demand has surged dramatically, with Delhi–Colombo flight fares jumping from around ₹30,000 to nearly ₹1.45 lakh in recent days. Premium hotel rooms in Colombo have also crossed ₹1 lakh per night amid the rush.
The match is expected to draw massive global viewership, reaffirming the India-Pakistan contest as cricket’s most-watched rivalry.
Both Teams Unbeaten So Far
India and Pakistan enter the clash unbeaten in Group A, with two wins each and four points on the table. India currently leads on net run rate after its big win over Namibia.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said his side is ready for the challenge and welcomed Abhishek’s return, noting that his team wants to face India at full strength.
With political tensions settled, stadiums packed and star players fit, the stage is finally set for another unforgettable chapter in cricket’s fiercest rivalry.
