COLOMBO – The stage is set for the most explosive encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This Sunday, February 15, arch-rivals India and Pakistan will lock horns at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With both teams eyeing a definitive path to the Super 8s, all eyes are on the fitness of India’s breakout star, Abhishek Sharma.

The Road to Colombo: India Reclaims Top Spot

Following a clinical 93-run demolition of Namibia at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday, India has reclaimed the #1 spot in Group A. Powered by Ishan Kishan’s blistering 61 off 24 balls and Hardik Pandya’s late-inning fireworks (52 off 28), the Men in Blue posted a massive 209/9. The bowling unit, led by mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy (3/7), ensured Namibia never stood a chance, bundling them out for 116.

Group A Points Table (As of Feb 13, 2026)

Abhishek Sharma Health Update: Will He Play Against Pakistan?

The biggest question mark for the Indian camp is the availability of opener Abhishek Sharma. After being hospitalized in New Delhi with a severe stomach infection and dehydration—reportedly resulting in a 2kg weight loss—Sharma was discharged earlier this week.

While he missed the Namibia clash, teammate Varun Chakravarthy offered a hopeful update: “I’ve spoken to him, and he’s already back to light practice. He looks good and is definitely on the way back. I think he will play the next match.”

However, Captain Suryakumar Yadav remains cautious, hinting that the team management won’t rush the youngster unless he is at 100% match fitness. Sanju Samson, who filled in against Namibia with a quick-fire 22, remains the primary backup.

Match Details: India vs Pakistan

• Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026

• Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka

• Time: 7:00 PM IST / 1:30 PM GMT

• Weather Forecast: Partial cloud cover with a 50% chance of evening showers.

Why Colombo?

While India is a co-host, Pakistan’s matches were scheduled in Sri Lanka due to security considerations. The Colombo track traditionally favors spinners, which could play into the hands of India’s Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, but Pakistan’s pace battery, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, remains a constant threat.

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