India could be forced into a significant squad reshuffle ahead of the ODI series against Afghanistan, with Virat Kohli likely to be unavailable due to a hamstring injury. The veteran batter sustained the injury during the IPL 2026 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT), where he produced a match-winning unbeaten knock to guide RCB to a second successive title.
Reports suggest that Kohli has been advised to rest for at least two weeks, casting serious doubt over his availability for the three-match ODI series beginning on June 13 in Dharamsala. With India set to begin their first ODI assignment after the IPL, the selectors are expected to make a late adjustment to the squad, and a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star has emerged as the leading candidate to fill the vacancy.
Virat Kohli faces race against time after IPL final injury
Kohli played a match-winning innings of 75 not out in the IPL 2026 final and guided RCB to their second consecutive title. However, reports suggest that the former India captain experienced discomfort in his hamstring while batting during the chase. Despite completing the innings without visible limitations, subsequent medical examinations reportedly confirmed the injury. As a precautionary measure, Kohli has been advised to take a minimum two-week break from competitive cricket.
Although the recovery timeline means he could potentially return in time for the third ODI of the series on June 20, the BCCI is unlikely to take any risks with one of its most important ODI players. India will also play a white-ball tour of England scheduled in July, making workload management a priority. Having already retired from T20Is and Test cricket, Kohli’s focus remains firmly on the ODI format and India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
CSK skipper emerges as frontrunner for recall
With Kohli’s participation in serious doubt, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to fill the vacant spot in the squad. Gaikwad was initially selected for the India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he was expected to serve as vice-captain under Tilak Varma. However, reports indicate that the selectors are now considering promoting him to the senior ODI setup following Kohli’s injury setback.
The right-handed batter last represented India in ODIs during the South Africa series, where he impressed with a brilliant century. Gaikwad scored 105 runs off just 83 deliveries in Raipur, showcasing his ability to anchor an innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate. Overall, he has featured in nine ODIs for India, scoring 228 runs, including one century and one half-century. His consistent performances in domestic cricket over the last year have kept him firmly in contention for a national comeback.
