The rivalry between the India national cricket team and the Afghanistan national cricket team has entered a significant phase in June 2026, with India hosting Afghanistan for a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series. The tour has already produced major headlines, including India’s biggest-ever Test victory, injury concerns, squad changes, and the beginning of India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
India’s Historic Test Victory
India recently defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs in a one-off Test match at New Chandigarh. The win became India’s largest margin of victory in Test cricket history. Debutant spinner Manav Suthar starred with a six-wicket haul in Afghanistan’s first innings and was named Player of the Match. India declared at 564/8 before bowling Afghanistan out twice within three days.
India’s performance highlighted the depth of its spin attack, with Suthar, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav dominating Afghanistan’s batting lineup. Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted that the match exposed his team’s limited experience in red-ball cricket.
ODI Series Begins a New Era
The ODI series against Afghanistan is viewed as India’s first major step toward building a squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup. India are being led by Shubman Gill, who is continuing to establish himself as a long-term leader in the format. Former India batter Aakash Chopra recently stated that Gill still has room to grow as an ODI captain despite his excellent batting performances.
The three-match ODI series is scheduled for June 14, 17 and 20, with Dharamsala hosting the opening encounter.
India Squad News
India’s preparations have been affected by injuries to several key players.
Virat Kohli Injury
Former India captain Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the ODI series after suffering a hamstring injury during the IPL. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was called up as his replacement. The team management remains hopeful that Kohli will return for future ODI assignments later in the year.
Hardik Pandya Also Unavailable
All-rounder Hardik Pandya is another major absentee. His absence has opened opportunities for younger players, particularly Nitish Kumar Reddy. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is also expected to receive increased responsibility during the series.
Emerging Indian Players to Watch
Several emerging players are expected to benefit from the Afghanistan series:
- Shubman Gill – captain and top-order batter.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – replacement for Kohli.
- Ishan Kishan – wicketkeeper-batter seeking a regular ODI role.
- Nitish Kumar Reddy – all-round option.
- Manav Suthar – breakout spinner after his remarkable Test debut.
- Kuldeep Yadav – key spin weapon.
- Washington Sundar – all-round contributor.
Afghanistan Squad News
Afghanistan continue to rely on a core group of experienced international players. Key names include:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi – captain.
- Rahmat Shah – senior batter.
- Rashid Khan – world-class leg-spinner.
- Mohammad Nabi – veteran all-rounder.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – explosive opener.
- Ibrahim Zadran – dependable top-order batter.
- Fazalhaq Farooqi – left-arm fast bowler.
Despite possessing world-class white-ball talent, Afghanistan struggled badly in the Test match and will be eager to produce a stronger performance in the ODI series.
Probable India ODI XI
Based on recent reports, India’s likely playing XI could feature:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Ishan Kishan
- KL Rahul
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Pace bowler
- Pace bowler
- Pace bowler
The final combination may vary depending on conditions and fitness updates.
Afghanistan’s Probable ODI XI
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Rahmat Shah
- Hashmatullah Shahidi
- Mohammad Nabi
- Middle-order batter
- All-rounder
- Rashid Khan
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Fast bowler
- Spinner
Weather Concern for First ODI
The opening ODI in Dharamsala faces a serious weather threat. Forecasts indicate rain, thunderstorms and even hail in the region, raising the possibility of interruptions or a washout. An orange weather alert has reportedly been issued for the area.
India’s Long-Term Strategy
India’s coaching staff is using the Afghanistan series as part of a broader plan for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Bowling coach Morne Morkel recently emphasized the need to build a larger pool of fast bowlers and create greater depth across the squad. The focus is on workload management, tactical flexibility and developing multiple options for different conditions around the world.
Key Players to Watch
India
- Shubman Gill
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Manav Suthar
Afghanistan
- Rashid Khan
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rahmat Shah
Outlook
India enter the ODI series as clear favourites after their dominant Test victory and superior squad depth. However, Afghanistan possess enough match-winners—especially Rashid Khan, Gurbaz and Nabi—to challenge any team in white-ball cricket. The series will also provide valuable insight into India’s next generation under Shubman Gill’s leadership as preparations for the 2027 World Cup intensify.
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