India and Afghanistan are set to begin their three-match ODI series on June 13 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. The series marks India’s return to ODI cricket following the conclusion of IPL 2026, with several exciting youngsters earning opportunities alongside established stars.
Led by Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, the Men in Blue will be aiming to start the series on a winning note. Afghanistan, meanwhile, arrive with a competitive squad featuring several proven performers in white-ball cricket. With conditions in Dharamshala expected to assist seam bowlers early on, team selection could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the opening encounter.
Aakash Chopra reveals his India XI for first ODI
Former India batter and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra has shared his preferred playing XI for the series opener. Chopra has largely backed India’s experienced core while also making room for one of the most promising uncapped players in the squad. According to Chopra, India should continue with Rohit and Shubman as the opening pair. The duo has been India’s preferred combination in the 50-over format and provides both stability and attacking intent at the top of the order.
One of the biggest talking points in Chopra’s selection is the inclusion of Ishan Kishan at No. 3. The former India opener believes Kishan should be preferred ahead of Yashasvi Jaiswal in the opening ODI, allowing the left-hander an opportunity to make an impact in the middle order. Chopra has Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul occupying the No. 4 and No. 5 positions respectively. Both batters have been key performers for India in ODI cricket and add valuable experience to the middle order.
With uncertainty surrounding Hardik Pandya’s availability, Chopra has slotted Nitish Kumar Reddy at No. 6. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) all-rounder impressed during IPL 2026 and could be entrusted with a larger role if given an opportunity in the national side. Washington Sundar completes Chopra’s top seven, providing balance with his all-round abilities.
Prince Yadav backed for international debut
The bowling attack selected by Chopra features a blend of youth and experience. Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is the lone specialist spinner in the XI, while Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh are expected to spearhead the pace attack. The most notable inclusion is young pacer Prince Yadav, whom Chopra believes could earn his maiden international cap.
Prince has impressed in domestic cricket and was rewarded with a place in India’s ODI squad alongside fellow newcomers Harsh Dubey and Gurnoor Brar. Chopra feels the youngster’s ability to generate pace and extract movement could make him an exciting option in Dharamshala’s pace-friendly conditions. With Reddy also capable of contributing with the ball, India would have multiple seam-bowling options at their disposal.
Aakash Chopra’s India XI for the first ODI against Afghanistan: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav
A golden opportunity for India’s next generation
The Afghanistan series presents an excellent opportunity for India’s emerging players to make a strong impression at the international level. With major ICC events on the horizon, performances from players like Reddy, Prince, Dubey and Brar could influence India’s long-term planning in the ODI format. At the same time, senior stars such as Rohit, Shubman and Rahul will be eager to set the tone for the series and ensure India begin their home season with a convincing performance.
