As the cricketing world braces for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan on September 28 at the Dubai International Stadium, Team India finds itself grappling with a trio of injury concerns that could significantly impact their title hopes. Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, explosive opener Abhishek Sharma, and promising middle-order batter Tilak Varma all suffered physical setbacks during India’s dramatic Super Four victory over Sri Lanka—a match that went down to a nerve-wracking Super Over.
🏏 The Match That Sparked Concern
India’s clash with Sri Lanka was a rollercoaster of emotions. While the Men in Blue emerged victorious in the Super Over, the game left behind a trail of physical strain and uncertainty. All three injuries occurred during the second innings of the match, raising alarms just days before the final.
- Hardik Pandya bowled the first over of Sri Lanka’s innings and struck immediately, dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck. However, moments later, he was seen clutching his left hamstring and walked off the field. He did not return for the remainder of the innings.
- Abhishek Sharma, who had earlier dazzled with a blistering 61 off 31 balls—his third consecutive fifty in the tournament—appeared in discomfort during the ninth over. He clutched his right thigh and exited the field in the 10th over. He received ice treatment and pickle juice to relieve cramps.
- Tilak Varma, who remained unbeaten on 49, reportedly suffered a hamstring strain while attempting a catch near the boundary ropes. He limped off the field during the 18th over and did not return.
🩺 Injury Status and Recovery Plans
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed the media post-match, offering clarity on the situation:
- Hardik Pandya: Morkel confirmed that Pandya was struggling with cramps, not a tear, and would be assessed on Friday night and Saturday morning. A final decision on his availability for the final will be made after medical evaluation.
- Abhishek Sharma: Morkel assured that Sharma is “absolutely fine” and the issue was limited to cramps. He is expected to be fit for the final.
- Tilak Varma: No official statement has been released regarding Varma’s condition. However, reports suggest he suffered a hamstring pull, sparking doubts about his availability.
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav also weighed in, saying, “A few players experienced cramps, but we are hopeful they will recover fully before the final against Pakistan”.
🧊 Recovery Protocols in Place
With less than 48 hours before the final, Team India has prioritized recovery over training. Morkel revealed that:
- Players were immediately given ice baths post-match.
- Individual pool sessions and massages are scheduled to aid recovery.
- No formal training will be held before the final to allow players to rest and mentally prepare.
“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.
🇮🇳 What’s at Stake?
India enters the final undefeated, having showcased resilience and depth throughout the tournament. The potential absence of Pandya or Varma could impact the team’s balance, especially in high-pressure moments. Pandya’s all-round capabilities and Varma’s composure in the middle order have been instrumental in India’s campaign.
Abhishek Sharma’s form has been a revelation, and his availability is crucial for India’s aggressive starts. With Pakistan boasting a formidable pace attack, India will need all hands on deck to counter the challenge.
🕵️♂️ Possible Replacements?
Should any of the three players be ruled out, India has a strong bench to fall back on:
- Shivam Dube could step in for Pandya, offering medium pace and big-hitting ability.
- Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma have already featured as substitute fielders and could be drafted into the XI.
🏆 Final Countdown
The Asia Cup 2025 final promises to be a blockbuster, with arch-rivals India and Pakistan set to renew their storied rivalry. While India’s injury concerns have cast a shadow over their preparations, the team’s depth and resilience remain their biggest assets.
Fans across the globe will be watching closely—not just for the cricketing spectacle, but for the fitness updates that could shape the outcome of the tournament.
See More: Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma Injury