Virat Kohli Likely to Miss Afghanistan ODIs; Suspense Over Rohit Sharma's Fitness

Top Summary

• What happened: Former captain Virat Kohli is likely to miss the Afghanistan ODI series due to a hamstring injury, while Rohit Sharma's fitness clearance remains pending.
• Why it matters: Missing key senior players right before the series complicates India's squad dynamics and selection strategies.
• What changes: Promising talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Tilak Varma could get late call-ups.
• Who is affected: The Indian Men's Cricket Team, selectors led by Ajit Agarkar, and the incoming squad members.

Kohli Sidelined Following IPL Triumph

Former India captain Virat Kohli is highly likely to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The veteran batsman is recovering from a right hamstring injury sustained on May 31 during his sensational IPL season.

Kohli top-scored with an unbeaten 75-run knock in the final to lead Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to the title. He finished the tournament with 675 runs at an average of 56.25, including one century and five half-centuries.

The star batter is currently holidaying in Europe, and his exact recovery timeline remains unclear. He had his hamstring heavily taped during the IPL final before resuming his innings.

Suspense Mounts Over Rohit Sharma's Fitness Clearance

Uncertainty also looms over senior opener Rohit Sharma's participation in the series. The former skipper has yet to report to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for his mandatory fitness assessment.

While all-rounder Hardik Pandya has already checked in to secure his clearance, Rohit's delay leaves his availability in deep doubt. Both veterans were selected in the squad subject to clearing their physical fitness evaluations.

The selectors and team management had suggested trying Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order with Shubman Gill but Rohit managed to keep his spot.

Potential Squad Replacements and Reshuffling

The senior selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, had initially considered resting both senior pros but ultimately included them. With both players now battling hamstring issues, multiple slots could open up in the national team.

Youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal is poised for a potential late inclusion in the squad. Additionally, selectors may look at middle-order alternatives like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devdutt Padikkal, or Tilak Varma.

India vs Afghanistan ODI Series Schedule

• 1st ODI: June 14, 2026 – Dharamsala – 1:30 PM IST
• 2nd ODI: June 17, 2026 – Lucknow – 1:30 PM IST
• 3rd ODI: June 20, 2026 – Chennai – 1:30 PM IST

What to Watch Next

The key decision-makers and selectors are scheduled to meet on June 6 to finalize the squad changes. This crucial meeting will also see the selection of Indian squads for the upcoming white-ball assignments in Ireland and England.