Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed that Abhishek Sharma has made a strong recovery and is available for selection in the high-profile encounter against Pakistan on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

The left-hander missed the previous match against Namibia due to a stomach infection and was also unwell during India’s tournament opener against the United States. After spending nearly a week recovering, Abhishek has regained full fitness and returned to training ahead of the much-anticipated clash.

Adding a light-hearted touch, Suryakumar said, “We will play Abhishek Sharma if all of you want him to play.”

Abhishek Sharma appears set to feature in the marquee T20 encounter against Pakistan, according to India spinner Varun Chakravarthy on Thursday.

Chakravarthy, who impressed with the ball in the victory over Namibia, provided an update on the opener’s fitness.

"As far as I have spoken to him he looks good, he did some practice today also. He told me he is on the way," said Chakravarthy.

Earlier, Salman Ali Agha had stated that he was keen to see Abhishek Sharma in action, describing him as an integral part of India’s strongest playing XI.

With tensions running high and both skippers sharing their views, the prospect of Abhishek’s return adds an extra dose of excitement to the much-anticipated clash.