After a brief gap from international cricket, Team India are set to return to action with a multi-format home series against Afghanistan in June. The series will consist of a one-off Test match followed by a three-match ODI series, giving Indian fans an opportunity to watch several senior stars back in national colours once again.
The standalone Test will be played in Mullanpur from June 6 to 10, while the ODI matches are scheduled for June 14 in Dharamsala, June 17 in Lucknow, and June 20 in Chennai. The series is expected to mark the beginning of India’s preparations for future ICC tournaments and also provide clarity regarding the team’s leadership and squad combinations in the 50-over format.
With senior players returning and a blend of youth and experience likely to feature, the Afghanistan series could prove to be an important checkpoint for India’s ODI setup moving forward.
Mega stars to make comeback for ODI leg
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the series is the expected return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to India’s ODI side. Both legendary batters have stepped away from the other two international formats and are now expected to focus primarily on ODI cricket.
Their comeback is likely to add massive experience and stability to India’s batting lineup. Rohit, known for his ability to dominate attacks at the top, could once again partner with Shubman Gill to form a dangerous opening pair. Meanwhile, Kohli’s presence in the middle order will provide the calmness and consistency India have relied on for over a decade.
The duo’s return is not only significant from a cricketing perspective but also a huge boost for fans eager to see two modern-day greats back together in Indian colours. Their experience could also play a key role in guiding a relatively younger group that is gradually becoming the core of India’s future ODI setup.
India’s probable squad for ODI series
Star openers
India are likely to have a powerful top-order combination for the Afghanistan ODIs. Gill is expected to lead the side and continue his rise as one of India’s most dependable white-ball batters. Rohit’s probable return further strengthens the opening department.
Young left-hander Yashasvi Jaiswal could also be included as a backup opener and aggressive batting option. His fearless approach at the top gives India added flexibility in case they experiment with combinations during the series.
Solid middle-order
Kohli is expected to anchor the middle-order alongside Shreyas Iyer, who is likely to serve as vice-captain. Both players have been among India’s most reliable ODI performers in recent years.
KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan offer wicketkeeping choices and batting depth. Rahul’s composure and ability to shift gears make him a valuable asset in the middle overs, while Kishan provides an attacking option capable of changing games quickly. Tilak Varma is also expected to retain his place after impressive performances in limited opportunities.
Dynamic all-rounders
India’s probable squad also reflects a strong all-round department led by Hardik Pandya. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball remains crucial for the team balance in ODI cricket.
Axar Patel’s consistency with the ball and improving batting make him an important spin-bowling all-rounder. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy could earn another opportunity thanks to his exciting all-round potential and fearless style of cricket.
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Dazzling pace attack
India are likely to rely on a balanced bowling attack featuring both pace and spin. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are expected to spearhead the fast-bowling unit, while Arshdeep Singh’s left-arm angle could add variety. Kuldeep Yadav is likely to lead the spin department after consistently troubling batters in middle overs with his wrist spin. With experienced names returning and young talents eager to impress, India’s predicted squad looks well-equipped for the Afghanistan ODI series.
One notable omission from India’s probable ODI squad against Afghanistan could be premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. The star fast bowler is currently involved in IPL 2026 and has struggled to produce his usual match-winning performances this season. Several cricket experts believe the dip in form could be linked to the immense workload Bumrah has carried across formats over the past few years.
Considering his importance to India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the team management and selectors may prefer to manage his workload carefully rather than risk burnout or injury in a relatively less demanding bilateral series.
India’s predicted squad for Afghanistan series: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddxy, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
