India Faces Challenges Ahead of ODI Series Against Afghanistan

India's cricket team faces significant challenges ahead of the ODI series against Afghanistan, with star player Virat Kohli ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The fitness of senior players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya remains uncertain as they undergo rehabilitation. The BCCI has confirmed Kohli's absence and named Yashasvi Jaiswal as his replacement. The series is set to begin on June 13 in Dharamsala, with matches also scheduled in Lucknow and Chennai. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar provided updates on Kohli's recovery timeline, while emphasizing the importance of preparing Hardik for future tournaments. Stay tuned for more updates.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 23:06 IST

Kohli Ruled Out Due to Injury

India's preparations for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan have hit a snag as star batsman Virat Kohli has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury. The availability of senior players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya is still uncertain, pending fitness assessments from the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE).

BCCI Confirms Kohli's Absence

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially announced Kohli's unavailability while revealing the squads for the upcoming T20I tours to Ireland and England, as well as the 2026 Asian Games. Yashasvi Jaiswal has been selected as Kohli's replacement for the ODI series against Afghanistan. Kohli's injury occurred during the IPL 2026 final, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defended their title.

Update on Kohli's Recovery

Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, provided insights into Kohli's recovery, stating that the exact timeline for his return is still unclear. "It has been less than a week since he got injured in the IPL final, and they will assess his condition soon. While we hope he might be fit for the England ODI series, we do not have a definitive timeline from the physio yet," Agarkar explained.

ODI Series Schedule Against Afghanistan

India is set to compete against Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series starting in Dharamsala on June 13. The second match will take place in Lucknow on June 17, followed by the final game in Chennai on June 20.

Rohit and Hardik Await Fitness Tests

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya are currently undergoing rehabilitation for injuries sustained during the IPL season. Rohit is dealing with a persistent hamstring issue, while Hardik is recovering from back spasms that affected him in the latter part of IPL 2026. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia mentioned that both players are making progress in their rehabilitation and will need final clearance from the CoE before they can be considered for selection.

Hardik Pandya's ODI Prospects

Although Hardik has not been included in the T20I squads for the tours to Ireland and England, he remains a key part of India's plans for the ODI series against Afghanistan, contingent on his fitness. Agarkar highlighted the management's focus on ensuring Hardik is prepared for the 50-over format ahead of significant upcoming tournaments. "Our main goal is to get him fit for One-Day cricket, especially with the World Cup approaching in South Africa in about a year and a half," he concluded.