Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is all set to be named as Virat Kohli’s replacement in India’s squad for the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The RCB veteran has reportedly been ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury following the IPL 2026 campaign in which his team emerged victorious. Gaikwad, who last featured in an ODI game in December 2025, is the frontrunner to replace Kohli in the squad.
Gaikwad to replace Kohli for IND vs AFG ODIs?
As per the Indian Express, Gaikwad is expected to be picked as Virat’s replacement for the three-match IND vs AFG ODI series that commences from June 14. The report claims that Kohli has been advised rest for two weeks and that although he might be fit in time for the 3rd ODI, he is unlikely to be considered for selection. It is pertinent to point out that Ruturaj was added to the India A squad for the tri-series in Sri Lanka last week, replacing Riyan Parag. However, should Rutu be added to the ODI setup, then Rajat Patidar will be the one to replace him in the India A side, as per the report.
To date, Gaikwad has taken part in 9 ODIs in which he has amassed 228 runs, including a hundred and a half-century each. He played five 50-over format games in 2023 in which he scored 96 runs following which he was dropped. The CSK captain returned to the setup in 2025, having being picked in the side for the series against South Africa. He scored 105 runs in his last ODI outing on December 3, 2025 in Raipur.
Meanwhile, Kohli last played for India almost four months ago (January 18) in an ODI series against New Zealand. Virat’s hamstring injury just before the series against AFG comes as a blow to his aspirations to be a part of the 2027 World Cup squad. Make no mistake, he is among the top three run-getters for India in ODIs since the Champions Trophy 2025. It is also pertinent to point out that India are scheduled to tour England after the series against AFG, and therefore it will be very important for VK to stay in shape.
India’s squad for AFG ODIs
Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington, Kuldeep, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Hardik Pandya
Ruturaj Gaikwad to replace injured Virat Kohli for IND vs AFG ODIs Inside Sport India.
Hence then, the article about ruturaj gaikwad to replace injured virat kohli for ind vs afg odis was published today ( ) and is available on Inside sport ( Middle East ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Ruturaj Gaikwad to replace injured Virat Kohli for IND vs AFG ODIs )
Also on site :