India's ODI World Cup 2027 Preparations: Squad Announced for Afghanistan Series

Team India is gearing up for the ODI World Cup 2027 with a newly announced squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan. With fitness concerns surrounding key players like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, the team may see fresh faces like Prince Yadav making their debut. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, fans are eager to see how the squad shapes up and who will take the field in this crucial series. Stay tuned for insights into India's strategy and player performances leading up to the World Cup.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 10:58 IST

India Gears Up for ODI World Cup 2027

Team India is set to embark on their preparations for the ODI World Cup 2027, scheduled for October next year across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Their initial step towards this tournament will follow the IPL 2026, where they will face Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series at home. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has revealed a 15-member squad for this series. To secure a win against Afghanistan, India may need to field a robust playing XI, which could potentially exclude star player Rohit Sharma, a surprising development.

Rohit Sharma's Fitness Concerns

Rohit Sharma OUT?

Rohit Sharma makes his return to the Indian squad for the first time since the ODI series against New Zealand in January. However, he has been dealing with a hamstring injury sustained during IPL 2026, causing him to miss several matches and participate as an impact substitute in others. Consequently, India might choose to rest him against Afghanistan to prioritize his recovery. His inclusion in the squad was contingent on his fitness status.

In Rohit's absence, Ishan Kishan is expected to open the batting alongside captain Shubman Gill. The top order will remain unchanged, featuring Virat Kohli at number three, Shreyas Iyer at number four, and KL Rahul at number five.

Hardik Pandya's Availability in Question

No Hardik Pandya, Debut For Harsh Dubey

Hardik Pandya has also faced challenges during IPL 2026, missing three matches due to a back spasm. His participation in the series is also dependent on fitness clearance. If India decides to exclude Pandya, they may bring in Nitish Kumar Reddy as a pace-bowling all-rounder. Reddy, primarily known for his batting, has significantly improved his bowling this season, taking seven wickets, marking his best performance in an IPL season.

Washington Sundar is likely to bat at number seven, while Harsh Dubey is set to be included as the other spin-bowling all-rounder. With Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja rested, Dubey will serve as the left-arm spinner for the team.

Prince Yadav's Potential Debut

Prince Yadav In?

Prince Yadav has emerged as a standout performer in the IPL, consistently taking 16 wickets in 13 matches despite the Lucknow Super Giants' struggles. His impressive form has fast-tracked him into the Indian team, and with both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj unavailable, this could be a prime opportunity to give Prince his debut. Considering the conditions for the ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa, India may opt for a pace-heavy bowling attack, featuring Prince Yadav alongside Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna.

Predicted Playing XI for Afghanistan ODI Series

India Predicted Playing XI For Afghanistan ODI Series

Ishan Kishan (wk), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Nitish Reddy, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav/Prasidh Krishna

Complete India Squad for Afghanistan ODI Series

India Squad For Afghanistan ODI Series

Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma*, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya*, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, and Harsh.