Just two days before the Asia Cup 2025 final, India have been left sweating over the fitness of Hardik Pandya, while opener Abhishek Sharma has been cleared of any serious concern.
Both players limped off during India’s thrilling Super Over victory against Sri Lanka on Friday night in Dubai, raising fears over their availability for the title clash against arch-rivals Pakistan.
Hardik struck early with the ball, dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck, but hobbled off clutching his left hamstring after completing just one over. He did not return to the field for the remainder of the innings.
Abhishek, who starred with the bat with a blistering 61 off 31 balls, also caused alarm when he clutched his thigh during the ninth over of Sri Lanka’s chase. He eventually walked off in the 10th over and played no further part in the field.
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel sought to calm nerves in the aftermath, confirming that both were suffering from cramps rather than muscular injuries.
“Hardik had cramps, he will be assessed tonight and tomorrow morning. Abhishek is fine,” Morkel told reporters after the game.
With India having just one day to recover before Sunday’s showdown, the management is prioritising rest and recovery over training.
“The key for the boys is to rest. They’re already in the ice baths and recovery started straight after the match. Best way to recover is sleep and to stay off your feet,” Morkel explained.
He added that the players will undergo pool sessions and massages on Saturday instead of a practice session. Pakistan, in contrast, have slotted a full evening training stint at the ICC Academy.
India’s thrilling win against Sri Lanka highlighted the team’s resilience, with Arshdeep Singh redeeming himself by holding his nerve in the Super Over. But with Pandya still under observation, questions linger over India’s balance heading into the final.
For Abhishek, the signs are more reassuring. The 23-year-old opener has been India’s most explosive batter in the tournament, and his availability is a major boost.
The spotlight now shifts to Hardik. If the all-rounder fails to recover in time, India may have to reshuffle their combination for the biggest match of the Asia Cup.
With Pakistan waiting and the Dubai International Stadium set to host yet another full house, the build-up has been given an extra layer of tension — as both teams monitor every detail before the summit clash.
