Virat Kohli Ruled Out of Afghanistan ODIs with Hamstring Injury

India have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, with veteran batter Virat Kohli ruled out due to a hamstring injury.

The 37-year-old sustained the injury during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s back-to-back IPL title-winning campaign and requires at least two weeks of rest. Consequently, he will miss the series opener in Dharamsala (June 13), the second ODI in Lucknow (June 17), and the final match in Chennai (June 20).

Shubman Gill will captain the side in Kohli’s absence. The series also comes with Rohit Sharma facing his own hamstring concerns, potentially opening the door for younger batters to stake a claim in the top order.

Youngsters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad are among the contenders eyeing the vacant spots, as India look to build momentum ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Despite the setback, the team management will aim for a clean sweep against Rashid Khan-led Afghanistan, using the opportunity to test their bench strength and solidify their batting combinations.

                                               

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