Indian cricket team | AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool
India hosts Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi tonight in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, but defending champions face a key setback as opener Abhishek Sharma is doubtful after a stomach infection disrupted his preparations. The Group A clash kicks off at 7:00 p.m. local time as India aims to build momentum ahead of a blockbuster encounter with Pakistan.
Sharma, a prolific left-hander and one of India’s top T20 batters, was hospitalised earlier this week with a severe stomach infection and missed training sessions, prompting concern among fans and team management. According to cricket board sources, he remained under medical care in New Delhi and was unlikely to take the field tonight.
The Indian camp has been monitoring his condition closely, with first-team coach Ryan ten Doeschate and teammate Tilak Varma offering cautious optimism about his recovery. Varma told reporters that Sharma, discharged from hospital, is “doing well” but that a final decision on his participation would be made closer to match time.
If Sharma is ruled out, India’s batting order could see a reshuffle, potentially giving Sanju Samson another opportunity near the top. Samson missed the opening match against the United States but has been in India’s plans for the tournament.
India enters the match on the back of a comfortable win in their tournament opener, while Namibia, winless so far, will need a near-perfect performance to challenge the hosts. Despite the gulf in experience and form, Namibia’s players have stressed they are treating every game as crucial in their bid to progress from the group.
Fans have turned out in large numbers for the tournament, with local transport providers extending services for spectators heading to the stadium. Authorities have also issued traffic and metro advisories to manage the influx of supporters aiming to watch the worldwide event.
The atmosphere at Arun Jaitley Stadium is expected to be electric, with crowds rallying behind Suryakumar Yadav’s side as India seeks to assert early dominance in the competition. Following tonight’s match, all eyes will shift to India’s high-profile next fixture against Pakistan, a contest that promises intense rivalry and significant stakes.
