India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel confirmed that Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya were both hampered by cramps during the second innings against Sri Lanka in Dubai. While Abhishek has recovered, Hardik will be assessed on Saturday before the Asia Cup final against Pakistan.
“Hardik, I know we’ll assess tonight and tomorrow morning and make a call. Abhishek is fine. Both of them were just struggling with cramps,” Morkel said after India’s Super Over win.
Pandya bowled only the opening over before leaving the field, while Abhishek, who earlier smashed 61 off 31 balls, fielded for 9.2 overs before also walking off. The opener did not return for the Super Over, with Shubman Gill joining captain Suryakumar Yadav to close out the match.
With a late finish on Friday and just one day’s gap before the final, India have opted against training on Saturday. Pakistan, meanwhile, will practice from 6–9 pm local time at the ICC Academy.
“The key for the boys is to rest,” Morkel said. “Recovery started straight after the game with ice baths. The best way is sleep and staying off their feet. Tomorrow, there’ll be pool sessions, massages, and just getting mentally ready for the final. It’s a quick turnaround, so we need to play it smart. But there will certainly be no training.”
