Rohit Sharma aims to secure ODI future during series against Afghanistan
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 6:47 AM
Last updated Jun 13, 2026
Rohit Sharma begins a crucial three-match ODI series against Afghanistan on Saturday, needing to demonstrate both fitness and form ahead of the 2027 World Cup. At age 39, he is under pressure to justify his inclusion as captain Shubman Gill considers lineup changes with Virat Kohli sidelined due to injury. With selection decisions looming, the Indian management is keen to explore various batting combinations, including possibilities with KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Harshit Rana is also expected to join the team ahead of the third ODI after intensive practice and preparation.
- •The series against Afghanistan starts on June 13, 2026.
- •Rohit Sharma needs to prove himself ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
- •Captain Shubman Gill is considering changes to the batting lineup.
- •Virat Kohli is unavailable due to a hamstring injury.
- •Harshit Rana may join the team prior to the third ODI.
- 6:47 AMYahoo Sports — IND vs AFG ODIs: Spotlight on Rohit Sharma as World Cup auditions begin for 2027
"Rohit Sharma faces an audition for his ODI future, needing to prove his fitness and form ahead of the next World Cup. Captain Shubman Gill grapples with selection decisions, potentially looking beyond the veteran. The series against Afghanistan also serves as a platform to test new batting combinations with Virat Kohli sidelined.
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