The Afghanistan ODI series is less about the result and more about understanding what India is building towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The top order almost picks itself. As long as Rohit Sharma is fit, he remains India’s first-choice opener. Alongside him, Shubman Gill will continue as the long-term opening partner and captain. With Virat Kohli unavailable due to injury, India have a decision to make at No.3.
One possibility is Shreyas Iyer moving up to No.3, a position he has played before, with another batter slotting into No.4. The other possibility is giving Ishan Kishan an opportunity at No.3. Ishan has been recalled after a long time and remains one of India’s most versatile ODI batters. He offers a left-handed option, wicketkeeping backup, and flexibility across the top order.
India’s ODI Squad:
Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma*, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya*, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey
My Probable XI for the First ODI:
- Rohit Sharma
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Ishan Kishan
- Shreyas Iyer (vc)
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
- Prasidh Krishna
- Prince Yadav
Prince Yadav is the player I am most interested in watching. He earned his opportunity through strong domestic and IPL performances and now gets a chance to prove himself in the ODI format.
Washington Sundar’s role will also be crucial. He provides balance as a spin-bowling all-rounder and allows India flexibility in team composition.
This XI gives India a good blend of experience, youth, left-right combinations, spin options, and fast-bowling depth while still keeping one eye firmly on the 2027 World Cup.