IND VS AFG: Following the conclusion of the Test match, the ODI series is now set to commence. The first match of the three-game ODI series is scheduled to be played on June 14, 2026—an event that has sparked visible excitement among fans. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with all players expected to give their absolute best in their bid for victory. However, just before the ODI series begins, the Indian team faces the looming possibility of a major setback.
A significant question mark has emerged regarding the fitness of “Hitman” Rohit Sharma. Furthermore, the BCCI has instructed both Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya to report to the Centre of Excellence. Both players are required to prove their fitness; only then will they be included in the ODI squad. Otherwise, they risk being left out.
BCCI Issues Directives
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that Hardik Pandya must spend one week at the Centre of Excellence before joining Team India. It is worth recalling that Hardik’s selection to the Indian squad was contingent upon his fitness.
He will be allowed to play in the Playing XI only once he is deemed fully fit. Over the coming week, Hardik will undergo a regimen of fitness drills and match simulations. Hardik Pandya has been grappling with a back muscle strain—an issue that forced him to sit out several matches during the 2026 IPL season. Hardik was last seen playing an ODI match during the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Rohit Sharma’s Fitness Also Under Scrutiny
In addition to Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma has also received directives from the BCCI. Issuing an ultimatum, the BCCI has instructed him to report to the Centre of Excellence. Rohit was compelled to sit out a few matches during the 2026 IPL season as he was battling a hamstring injury.
Consequently, when the BCCI announced the ODI squad, a specific caveat—”Subject to Fitness”—was listed alongside Rohit Sharma’s name. This means Rohit will become part of the Playing XI only after he proves his match fitness.
ODI Squad
Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey.
