Hardik Pandya not 100 percent, Abhishek Sharma’s medical bulletin released
Indian Bowling Coach Updates on Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma’s Fitness
Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel provided a fitness update on all-rounder Hardik Pandya and batsman Abhishek Sharma, who suffered cramps during the final Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025. Morkel confirmed that Abhishek has recovered, while Hardik will be assessed on Saturday ahead of the final.
India kept their unbeaten streak in the T20 tournament alive with a thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in Dubai on Friday, September 26. Both teams finished level at 202 for 5, leading to a Super Over. Arshdeep Singh’s stellar bowling performance, conceding just two runs, secured India’s win.
Injuries Concern Team India Ahead of Final Match
The team, led by captain Shubman Gill, will face Pakistan, captained by Salman Ali Agha, in the final match in Dubai on Sunday, September 28. Key players in India’s camp have raised concerns ahead of the summit clash.
Hardik Pandya provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck in the first over but had to leave the field due to a hamstring injury. Abhishek Sharma also suffered cramps in the 10th over but managed to score 61 runs off 31 balls. Tilak Varma briefly left the field due to an injury as well, with substitute fielders stepping in.
Morkel’s Update on Player Fitness
Speaking at a press conference, Morne Morkel addressed the fitness of Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma, confirming that both players experienced cramps during the game. Morkel mentioned that Abhishek has recovered, while Hardik’s condition will be closely monitored.
Morkel stated, “Both of them struggled with cramps. Hardik Pandya, I know, we will assess tonight and tomorrow morning and we’ll take a call on that. But, both of them were just down with cramps during the game. Abhishek is fine.”
Abhishek Sharma has been in stellar form, scoring consistently throughout the tournament. He is the leading run-scorer, achieving his third consecutive half-century in the Super 4 match against Sri Lanka.
Preparation for the Final
India will skip training on Saturday to prioritize recovery ahead of the final. Morkel emphasized the importance of rest and a good night’s sleep for the players. Meanwhile, Pakistan has planned a full practice session on Saturday evening at the ICC Academy.
Morkel mentioned, “The key for the boys is to rest. They’re already all in the ice baths and the recovery sort of started straight away after the game. And the best way to recover is sleep and to stay off your feet. So hopefully they can all get a good night’s sleep tonight.”
He added, “When they wake up tomorrow, I’m pretty sure there will be a pool session, an individual pool session for the guys, organized. And then from there, it’s just getting a flush from the masseuses, getting massages, and getting themselves mentally ready for a big battle on Sunday.”
As the teams prepare for the final showdown, fans eagerly await the outcome of this highly anticipated match in the Asia Cup 2025.


