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Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli - (Source: AFP)
India's preparations for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan have taken an unexpected turn after Virat Kohli has reportedly been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
While Ruturaj Gaikwad was initially reported to replace the star player, fresh developments have created uncertainty over India's plans.
The three-match ODI series against Afghanistan will begin on June 13 in Dharamsala.
The IND vs AFG ODI series will provide an important opportunity for the 'Men in Blue' to test combinations ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
However, even before the start of the series, the team management has been forced to rethink its plans with focus on Virat Kohli's injury.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Spotted In Colombo For India A Tri-Series
The biggest talking point at the moment is the presence of Ruturaj Gaikwad in Colombo with the India A squad.
Recent visuals circulating on social media showed the CSK captain in Sri Lanka ahead of the tri-series involving India A, Sri Lanka A, and Afghanistan A.
These images have left fans confused because Ruturaj Gaikwad was expected to be named as Virat Kohli's replacement for the Afghanistan ODI series.
Reports had suggested that the selectors were considering him as a like-for-like replacement after Kohli's injury.
However, with Gaikwad currently focused on the India A series in Sri Lanka, questions have emerged about whether the selectors still plan to bring him into India's squad for the AFG ODIs or if they are looking at other options.
As of now, there has been no official announcement from the BCCI regarding Kohli's replacement.
Virat Kohli's Injury Timeline
Virat Kohli suffered the injury during RCB's successful chase against Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final.
Although he completed his innings and did not appear to be in significant discomfort at the time, medical examinations later revealed a hamstring issue.
Further reports stated that Kohli has suffered a distal semimembranosus tendon tear, a rare hamstring injury near the back of the knee.
Who Can Replace Virat Kohli If Not Ruturaj Gaikwad?
Ruturaj Gaikwad had recently joined the India A squad after Riyan Parag was ruled out due to injury. However, his presence in Sri Lanka has now complicated the selection picture.
If Gaikwad remains with India A, the selectors could turn their attention towards Devdutt Padikkal. The left-handed batter has been impressive in List A cricket, scoring 2,796 runs in 42 matches at an outstanding average of 82.23.
Another player who could enter the discussion is Rajat Patidar. The right-hander enjoyed a productive IPL 2026 campaign and has made 2,278 runs in 77 List A matches at a strike rate of 99.17.
While he may not have been the first choice initially, his recent form could work in his favour.
It is worth noting that the BCCI has not yet officially announced Virat Kohli’s injury and recovery timeline, so there is a chance the veteran player could recover and be available for the later stages of the ODI series.
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