New Delhi, February 10 Indian opener Abhishek Sharma missed Thursday's training session as he continues to recover from a stomach ailment, casting a shadow on his availability even as the team stepped up preparations for the T20 World Cup match against Namibia.
"Yes, Washington joined the team yesterday, and he will train today. Abhi is still having some issues with his stomach, but we hope he will be available for the game in a few days," said assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate ahead of the match against Namibia on Thursday.
There was reassuring news about Jasprit Bumrah. The spearhead looked fully fit, initially taking a few easy steps to get a feel for the pitch before changing his spikes and bowling at full tilt alongside captain Suryakumar Yadav.
During one intense spell, Bumrah outpaced Surya and forced him to play on, reminding everyone of how sharp the premier quick can be when fully fit.
"He has been off for 10 days without bowling, but he is feeling much better and moving much better, so we will see how the training goes for them and bring the team together on Friday," added ten Doeschate.
The two batters who appeared in complete control during the session were Suryakumar and Tilak Varma.
Varun Chakravarthy might be a problem for batters across the globe, but the way the duo handled the mystery spinner was striking.
Surya effortlessly slog-swept him behind square, while Tilak launched a towering six that landed in the top tier, drawing appreciative looks from his teammates.
All-rounder Washington Sundar, who rejoined the squad after his recent injury layoff, looked a little tentative during the initial fielding drills and did not bowl in the early part of the session.
He was seen engaged in a long discussion with head coach Gautam Gambhir near the boundary ropes before walking over to the pacers' nets for another detailed conversation with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
Later in the practice, Washington and Kuldeep Yadav took turns to bowl to Tilak Varma, which was an encouraging sign as the team assesses his recovery from the side strain and rib injury.
With Abhishek on the mend, Washington gradually easing back into bowling and Bumrah roaring back to full rhythm, India's think-tank has a few selection calls to make before match day.