India Prepares for ODI Series Against Afghanistan Amid Injury Concerns

India is set to face Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series starting June 13, following their recent Test victory. However, the team is grappling with injury concerns for key players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has provided updates on their fitness status, while the squad for the series has been announced. Read on to find out more about the players and the upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 9, 2026, 12:50 IST

India's Dominance Continues

India achieved their 15th straight victory over Afghanistan, decisively winning the recent one-off Test match. The two nations are set to clash again in a three-match ODI series starting June 13 (Saturday), which will serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027. Notably, Virat Kohli will not participate in this series, and the availability of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya remains uncertain due to fitness issues. Assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has shared significant updates regarding the two star players.

According to sources, both Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya are still awaiting clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence concerning their fitness status. During a press conference following the Test match, Kotak expressed optimism about their condition, stating, "I honestly don't know. I have not received confirmation on their clearance. However, I believe they will be included. From what I understand, they are doing well, but they must complete the required fitness tests."

Injury Updates on Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya

Rohit Sharma sustained a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, which forced him to miss several matches and participate mainly as an impact substitute. This injury has raised doubts about his participation in the series against Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya experienced back spasms during the same IPL season, leading to his absence from multiple games.

India's Squad for the ODI Series Against Afghanistan

The squad for the ODI series includes: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma*, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (Wicket-Keeper), Ishan Kishan (Wicket-Keeper), Hardik Pandya*, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, and Harsh Dubey.