Why did Virat Kohli miss first IND vs AFG ODI in Dharamsala?
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Virat Kohli recently played for RCB in IPL 2026.
Indian Cricket Team and the Afghanistan Cricket Team are crossing swords with each other in the first game of the three-match ODI series today. The match between the two sides is taking place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in Dharamsala.
The IND vs AFG series will mark the preparation for both India and Afghanistan for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. The mega event is all set to be played in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe in October and November next year.
India, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, enter the series as favourites; however, they are without some of their key players. This gives Afghanistan a fairer chance, as they have been in great ODI form of late.
Virat Kohli is one of the big stars India are missing in the first ODI match against Afghanistan. The premier batter was recently seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and his absence in the first ODI raised many eyebrows.
Why is Virat Kohli not playing the first IND vs AFG ODI?
The reason behind Virat Kohli‘s absence from the first IND vs AFG ODI is his injury. During the final of IPL 2026, the premier batter sustained a hamstring injury, but that didn’t seem serious at the time as he continued batting and hit a magical half-century.
However, later the reports suggested that Kohli’s injury is much more serious than expected. Later, it was revealed by chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, that the premier batter will miss the series, with Yashasvi Jaiswal being picked as his replacement.
Kohli’s absence no doubt will leave a massive void in India’s XI, as he was in red-hot form in ODIs before IPL 2026. Even in the T20 league, he looked class apart with over 650 runs to his name.
In his absence, Ishan Kishan or KL Rahul will bat at No. 3. Moreover, Ishan is also making his comeback to the ODI side, and it will be a great opportunity for him to reclaim his place in the side.
Who is leading India in the IND vs AFG ODI series?
Shubman Gill is leading India in the ODI series.
Why is Virat Kohli not playing the first India vs Afghanistan ODI?
Kohli missed the game due to injury.
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Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.