Former team India skipper Virat Kohli is expected to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to hamstring injury. The injury concern emerged during the IPL final when he was reportedly experiencing discomfort in his right hamstring while batting.
The former skipper is currently in Europe after helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru secure the IPL title.
The chase master Kohli enjoyed an outstanding IPL campaign. The batter finished the season with scoring 675 runs at an average of 56.25. He also played a crucial 75 runs knock in the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans.
Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya were included in the squad subject to fitness clearance. The team management has also been awaiting for Rohit’s fitness clearance ahead of the Afghanistan series. The former captain has not yet reported to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence for a fitness assessment. While Hardik has already reported for assessment.
After reports of Ro-Ko’s unavailability, India may need to make changes to the squad.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was being considered as an opening option alongside Shubman Gill, could emerge as a late addition if vacancies arise. The selectors has also been looking at Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devdutt Padikkal and Tilak Varma for the batting unit.
The final call on the squad is expected soon, with key decision-makers scheduled to meet on June 6 to select teams for upcoming white-ball assignments in Ireland and England.
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