Hardik Pandya Ruled Out of ODI Series Against Afghanistan Due to Injury

In a major setback for the Indian cricket team, Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the ODI series against Afghanistan due to a quadriceps strain. This injury comes just after he cleared a fitness test, raising concerns as the team prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has been declared fit to play, but Virat Kohli will miss the season due to a hamstring injury. The selectors have called up Yashasvi Jaiswal to fill Kohli's spot, while Shivam Dube may replace Pandya in the ODI lineup.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 10, 2026, 10:59 IST

Injury Update on Hardik Pandya

India faces a significant setback ahead of the ODI series against Afghanistan as all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been sidelined due to injury. Despite recently passing a fitness assessment at the BCCI's Center of Excellence, Pandya has unfortunately sustained a low-grade quadriceps strain. This injury occurred while he was at the COE, ruling him out of the upcoming series. Just days ago, he was deemed fit after missing four matches in IPL 2026 for the Mumbai Indians due to back spasms.

This news is particularly disappointing for the Indian team, which is counting on Pandya's performance as they prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. He was not included in the T20I squads for the UK tour and the Asian Games, as selectors aimed to keep him healthy for the ODI World Cup. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar emphasized the importance of having Pandya fit for one-day cricket, stating, “He is part of the one-day squad right now for the Afghanistan series. Like Bumrah, if we can get him playing well and keep him fit for one-day cricket — I don’t think he’s played one-day cricket for a while — that is, at this point, the main objective.”

Agarkar also mentioned the potential for rotation in the T20 format, allowing players like Nitish Reddy to gain experience. In Pandya's absence, Shivam Dube, who is currently only part of the T20I squad, may step in for the ODI team. Dube has limited experience in ODIs, having played just four matches, with his last appearance being against Sri Lanka in 2024.

Rohit Sharma's Fitness Status

Rohit Sharma Fit

In a positive development, Rohit Sharma has successfully cleared his fitness test and is expected to participate in the ODI series. He had previously suffered a hamstring injury during IPL 2026 but returned to play as an Impact Player. However, Virat Kohli will miss the season due to a hamstring injury sustained in the IPL 2026 final, leading to the selection of Yashasvi Jaiswal as his replacement.