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Virat Kohli (Source:AFP)
In a significant development, India have suffered a big blow ahead of their upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. As reported earlier, star batter Virat Kohli has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury for IND vs AFG ODIs.
The report added - "He is out of the ODI series due to a hamstring injury."
The three-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on June 13 in Dharamsala, but Virat Kohli will not be available after sustaining the injury during the IPL 2026 final.
During RCB's successful chase against Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final, Virat Kohli experienced slight discomfort in his hamstring and required medical attention.
Although he continued batting without visible difficulty, subsequent medical examinations confirmed the injury.
Official Update on Virat Kohli's Injury
Ahead of the one-off Test match in Mullanpur, Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the media. The India's assistant coach made a fresh update on Kohli's injury.
He stated that the team management is following standard medical protocols before making any final announcements.
Also Read: When Will Virat Kohli Play Next After Being Ruled Out Of India vs Afghanistan ODIs?
"Official communication will come on that [on Kohli’s availability for AFG ODIs]. It’s obviously big news when it’s someone like Virat or Rohit but the same protocols will be in place".
"We’ll assess the fitness of those guys and decide whether they are fit enough to play and be part of the squad. An official communication will come through as soon as the medical team has made a decision on that,” he said.
When Will Kohli Recover?
According to reports from Indian Express, Virat Kohli has been advised to take at least 2 weeks' rest. While he could potentially recover in time for the final ODI on June 20, the selectors have decided not to include him in the squad for a short three-match series.
"Since he has been advised two weeks rest, Kohli would be racing against to be immediately match fit. And more over, India have a busy ODI calendar ahead with India set to travel to England in July for a white-ball series that includes three ODIs." as reported by Indian Express.
The same report also stated that the decision on Kohli's availability for IND vs AFG ODIs will be taken keeping India’s busy ODI schedule ahead in mind.
Adding to India’s concerns, Rohit Sharma's availability for the IND vs AFG ODIs series is also uncertain. The Indian captain is reportedly recovering from a hamstring issue that he suffered during the middle phase of IPL 2026.
Who Can Replace Virat Kohli In IND vs AFG ODIs?
It is important to note that Ishan Kishan has returned to India's ODI squad after a remarkable form. The wicketkeeper-batter impressed in the T20 World Cup and also had a strong IPL season.
If Rohit Sharma is unavailable, Ishan Kishan could directly open the batting. If the team wants Kishan to bat at No. 3, Yashasvi Jaiswal is another option as an opener.
Another option is Devdutt Padikkal. The left-hander has shown great form and can be part of the mix of things as an opener as well as no. 3 and can replace Virat Kohli.
Also Read: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pitch Report, Weather Report For PAK vs AUS 3rd ODI
