Dubai: India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel provided crucial injury updates on Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma after India edged past Sri Lanka in a dramatic Super Over clash in the final Super 4s match of the Asia Cup 2025.
Hardik Pandya walks off with hamstring concern
Hardik Pandya gave India the perfect start by dismissing Kusal Mendis for a first-ball duck in the opening over. However, the all-rounder was soon seen clutching his left hamstring and walked off after finishing the over. He did not return for the rest of the innings, raising concerns over his availability for the all-important final against Pakistan.
“Hardik, I know we’ll see sort of tonight and tomorrow morning and we’ll make a call on that,” Morkel told reporters at the Dubai International Stadium.
Abhishek Sharma’s thigh discomfort
Youngster Abhishek Sharma also caused worry in the Indian camp after showing visible discomfort while fielding in the ninth over. He was spotted holding his right thigh before walking off in the 10th over.
Morkel confirmed that the opener was in better shape after treatment. “Abhishek is fine,” he reassured.
Both Hardik and Abhishek were seen receiving ice packs and pickle juice on the sidelines, with team physios attending to them throughout the innings.
Cause of concern: cramps, not major injuries
The bowling coach clarified that both players were mainly struggling with cramps due to the hot and humid conditions in Dubai. “So both of them struggled with cramps during the game,” he explained, stressing that the issues did not appear to be serious.
No training ahead of Asia Cup final
Morkel also revealed that India will not conduct a training session on Saturday, September 27, a day before the high-voltage final against Pakistan. Instead, the focus will be on recovery and rest.
“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,” Morkel said.
He added that only light recovery work, such as individual pool sessions and massages, would be carried out before the players prepare mentally for Sunday’s big clash.
India eye redemption in blockbuster final
The thrilling win against Sri Lanka ensured India’s place in the Asia Cup 2025 final, setting up a much-anticipated showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan. With Hardik Pandya’s fitness in question and Abhishek Sharma recovering from cramps, India will be hoping both players are available for the big occasion.
The Asia Cup final promises to be a gripping contest, and all eyes will be on India’s team management as they make late decisions on player fitness.