Virat Kohli Excluded from ODI Series Against Afghanistan Due to Injury

Virat Kohli has been sidelined from the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026. Yashasvi Jaiswal will take his place in the squad. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar indicated that while Kohli might be fit for the next series against England, there is no definitive timeline for his return. Kohli's recent performance in the IPL was impressive, making him a significant loss for the team. Jaiswal, who debuted in ODIs in 2025, is expected to step up in Kohli's absence. The ODI series begins on June 13.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 15:29 IST

Kohli's Injury Update

Virat Kohli, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, will miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury he sustained during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's victorious run in the IPL 2026 last month. Yashasvi Jaiswal has been named as his replacement in the squad.

Potential Return Timeline

Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, mentioned that Kohli might be ready for India's next ODI series against England, which is set to begin on July 14. However, he noted that there is currently 'no clear timeline' from the medical team regarding Kohli's recovery.

Official Announcement

'BCCI Hon. Secretary Mr. Devajit Saikia has confirmed that Yashasvi Jaiswal will step in for the injured Virat Kohli for the #INDvAFG ODI series,' the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced via an Instagram post.

ODI Series Schedule

The ODI series against Afghanistan will kick off on June 13, following a one-off Test match between the two teams at New Chandigarh.

Kohli's Recovery Status

'It has been less than a week since Virat's injury during the IPL finals. We are still uncertain about the recovery timeline. However, he may be fit for the England series. This is not a definitive statement, as I have yet to receive a clear update from the physio,' Agarkar stated.

Kohli's Recent Performance

Currently, Kohli is focused solely on ODI cricket, having retired from T20Is and Test matches. His last appearance was in the home series against New Zealand in January. In the IPL, he was the fourth-highest run-scorer, amassing 675 runs in 16 innings, averaging 56.25 with a strike rate of 165.84, including a century and five fifties, with a top score of 105*.

Yashasvi Jaiswal's Profile

Yashasvi Jaiswal made his ODI debut against England in February 2025 and has played four matches in this format. He achieved his first ODI century with an unbeaten 116 against South Africa in Visakhapatnam in December 2025.