India to Experiment with No. 3 Batting Position in ODI Series Against Afghanistan

India's Strategy for the No. 3 Batting Slot

Morne Morkel, the bowling coach for Team India, has announced that the team will be experimenting with the number three batting position during the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. Players such as Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are likely candidates for this crucial role. The first match of the series is set to take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Saturday. With Virat Kohli sidelined due to a hamstring injury, India is without their primary choice for the number three spot.

Morkel Discusses Kohli's Absence

During a pre-match press conference, Morkel emphasized the importance of Kohli's experience and his ability to stabilize the innings during the middle overs. He acknowledged that Kohli's absence is a significant setback for the team, stating, "Virat is a key player, and his approach during the middle phase is something we will miss. Injuries are beyond our control, unfortunately."

India's Squad for the ODI Series

The squad representing India in the ODI series against Afghanistan includes: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, and Harsh Dubey.