Ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel gave an update on the all-rounder, stating that the team will assess his fitness before making a decision.
India’s thrilling contest against Sri Lanka turned worrisome as three key players—Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma—suffered injury setbacks. Hardik Pandya walked off after his opening over in the second innings, while Abhishek, fresh from his third straight fifty of the tournament, left the field in the 10th over.
Tilak Varma, who played a crucial unbeaten knock of 49, was also injured late in the game while attempting a boundary catch. The ball struck his hand, forcing him to leave the field as well.
Morne Morkel provided an update on Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma after India’s dramatic Super Over win against Sri Lanka. Both players were seen struggling with cramps during the game.
“Hardik, I know we’ll assess tonight and tomorrow morning before making a call on him. Abhishek is fine,” Morkel told reporters. “Both of them were just struggling with cramps.”
“When they wake up tomorrow, I’m sure there will be a pool session arranged for individuals, followed by massages and recovery work. The key now is to get mentally ready for a big battle on Sunday,” Morkel explained. “It’s a quick turnaround, so playing this smart is going to be important. But there will certainly be no training.”
India, who remain unbeaten in the tournament, will face Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 on September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
