India have called up Yashasvi Jaiswal to their squad for the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan as a replacement for Virat Kohli, who has been ruled out due to injury, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Saturday.
Veteran batsman Virat Kohli, who has retired from Test cricket and T20 internationals, was originally included in India's squad last month. However, he suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League final last week. That victory secured RCB's second consecutive IPL title.
India are set to host Afghanistan in three ODIs scheduled for June 14, 17, and 20. After that, the team will travel to England for a three-match series in July, a series that Kohli could potentially feature in if he recovers in time.
Selection panel chairman Ajit Agarkar provided an update on Kohli's condition: 'With Virat at this point, it's just been less than a week since he injured himself in the IPL finals. We don't know the timelines yet. But it looks like he might be fit for that England one-day series. It's not a definitive answer, so don't hold me to it. I haven't had a clear timeline from the physio yet.'
Jaiswal, the young opening batsman, has been in impressive form in domestic cricket and the IPL, earning his maiden ODI call-up. His inclusion adds depth to the batting lineup as India look to prepare for future international commitments.
The BCCI medical team continues to monitor Kohli's recovery, and a final decision on his availability for the England series will be made closer to the time. Fans and selectors alike are hopeful that Kohli will regain full fitness and be able to contribute to the team's success on the upcoming tour.
