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The Indian cricket team and their massive fanbase have received a major setback ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. According to a recent report by Jagran News, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury.
The much-anticipated ODI series is set to begin on June 14, 2026, with Dharamshala hosting the opening match. The series will mark the start of India's preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The team, led by Shubman Gill, will look to bounce back from a series defeat to New Zealand earlier this year.
Virat Kohli Ruled Out of Afghanistan ODI Series Due to Injury
According to Jagran News, Virat Kohli's injury has created a major selection headache for India ahead of the ODI series against Afghanistan. His absence weakens the batting lineup and increases the responsibility on the remaining top-order batters.
The home series is important for India as they look to bounce back from a disappointing start to the year. Earlier, India suffered a 1-2 ODI series defeat against New Zealand at home.
Kohli was last seen in action during the final, where he played a match-winning knock of 75* off 42 balls against Gujarat Titans. He struck nine fours and three sixes at a strike rate of 178.57, helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru chase down the target comfortably and secure back-to-back titles.
Virat Kohli Enjoyed Another Outstanding IPL Season
Virat Kohli played a vital role in helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru defend their title, once again showcasing his class and consistency.
The right-handed batter finished as RCB's highest run-scorer in IPL 2026. He scored 675 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of 56.25 and a strike rate of 165.84, including one century and five half-centuries.
The upcoming tour will mark the first ODI bilateral series between India and Afghanistan. Their last ODI meeting came during the 2023 ODI World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where India secured a comfortable eight-wicket victory.
India Gear Up for Afghanistan Test and ODI Series
India are set for a busy home assignment against Afghanistan, with the two teams first meeting in a one-off Test from June 6 to June 10. The red-ball contest will be followed by a three-match ODI series, which begins on June 14.
As per schedule, the ODI leg will start in Dharamsala on June 14, with the second match scheduled for June 17 in Lucknow. Notably, the final ODI will take place in Chennai on June 20. All three matches are set to begin at 1:30 PM.
Shubman Gill will lead the Indian side, while Shreyas Iyer has been named vice-captain. The squad also features experienced players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep, Washington, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna.
India have also included several emerging names in the squad, including Nitish Kumar Reddy, Prince Yadav, Gurnur Brar, and Harsh Dubey, giving the team a blend of established stars and young talent for the Afghanistan series.
