Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma Injured? India Worries Before Asia Cup Final

Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma Injured: India Faces Fitness Concerns Ahead of Asia Cup Final vs Pakistan

India’s Asia Cup campaign faces a potential blow as all-rounder Hardik Pandya and star batter Abhishek Sharma suffered injuries during India’s thrilling match against Sri Lanka. Morne Morkel, India’s bowling coach, confirmed that Pandya experienced cramps and would be assessed on Friday night and Saturday morning, with his availability for the final against Pakistan still uncertain. Fans across India are holding their breath, hoping that their star players recover in time for the high-stakes clash.

Pandya’s injury occurred almost immediately after sending down the first over of Sri Lanka’s innings, where he made an instant impact by dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck. Moments after this strike, Pandya clutched his left hamstring and walked off the field, failing to return for the remainder of the innings. Morkel’s update at the post-match press conference echoed the concerns voiced by India captain Suryakumar Yadav earlier.

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Abhishek Sharma, another key figure in India’s batting lineup, also faced discomfort during the match. He first showed signs of distress during the ninth over, clutching his right thigh while running, and eventually walked off in the 10th over. Abhishek received ice treatment and pickle juice to manage cramps, leaving India to rely on substitute fielders such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Jitesh Sharma for support. Even Tilak Varma briefly exited the field, although he rejoined after a hydration break, highlighting the physical toll on the players during the extended encounter against Sri Lanka.

The match itself extended well beyond its scheduled finish due to a Super Over, intensifying the concern over player recovery before Sunday’s final against arch-rivals Pakistan. The turnaround time is short, and India’s coaching staff is prioritizing rest and recovery. Morkel emphasized that ice baths, massages, and individual pool sessions have been organized to help the players recover quickly. “The key for the boys is to rest. They’re in an ice bath already. The recovery started straight after the match. The best way to recover is to sleep and stay off your feet. Hopefully, they can get a good night’s sleep,” Morkel explained.

In addition to physical recovery, Morkel highlighted the importance of mental readiness. “There will be individual pool sessions for the guys organised. Then some massages before they get mentally ready for the big battle on Sunday. It’s a quick turnaround, and playing smart is going to be the key,” he added. The emphasis on careful management reflects India’s cautious approach, ensuring that both Pandya and Abhishek Sharma are not rushed back prematurely before a critical final.

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India’s fanbase is now watching closely as fitness updates for Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma will likely shape the team’s strategy for the Asia Cup final. The duo’s presence in the playing XI could prove decisive, given their ability to contribute both with the bat and the ball. Meanwhile, the substitutes who filled in during the Sri Lanka match displayed resilience, but the team will need its star performers firing at full capacity to overcome Pakistan in what promises to be a high-intensity encounter.

Recovery, strategic rest, and medical assessments will define India’s preparation in the next 48 hours. While the nation hopes for positive news regarding Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma, the team is already setting its sights on a smart, calculated approach to ensure they are competitive and physically ready for one of the most anticipated matches of the Asia Cup.

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