New Delhi, June 6, 2026: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name Ruturaj Gaikwad as the replacement for Virat Kohli in India's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Kohli has reportedly been ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026 final.
According to multiple reports, Gaikwad has emerged as the frontrunner to fill the vacant spot in the Indian batting lineup. The Chennai Super Kings captain is expected to receive a national team recall after missing recent ODI assignments.
Kohli's absence comes as a major setback for India ahead of the Afghanistan series, which begins on June 13 in Dharamshala. The veteran batter has been one of India's most consistent performers in the ODI format, and selectors were forced to consider alternatives after his injury ruled him out of the series.
Reports indicate that the selection committee views Gaikwad as the ideal replacement due to his solid domestic record and experience at the international level. The 29-year-old has impressed across formats and remains one of the most technically sound top-order batters in Indian cricket.
India's preparations have also been affected by fitness concerns surrounding captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, although no official changes regarding their participation have been confirmed yet.
The ODI series against Afghanistan will be played on June 13, June 17, and June 20, with matches scheduled in Dharamshala, Lucknow, and Chennai respectively.
