The Indian ODI team, selected for the three-match series against Afghanistan beginning June 13, has been hit by injury concerns. It has emerged that Virat Kohli is set to miss the series due to a hamstring injury, while there is no clarity regarding Rohit Sharma's fitness. Ruturaj Gaikwad could be flown in as a replacement.
Official Communication Awaited
"Official communication will come on that. It's obviously big news when it's someone like Virat or Rohit, but the same protocols will be in place," India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said on Thursday.
Kohli sustained the injury during the IPL final last Sunday and may require another fortnight to recover. Rohit and Hardik Pandya have been selected for the series subject to fitness clearance. Both missed a significant part of the IPL. Rohit is reportedly nursing a hamstring injury, while the selectors need assurance about Hardik's ability to bowl ten overs in an ODI at full intensity.
Hardik and Rohit's Status
Hardik is currently at the Centre of Excellence. However, Rohit has yet to report to any BCCI facility. The ODI team is scheduled to arrive in Chandigarh on June 8 and train at the PCA Stadium in Mohali.
Shreyas Iyer Frontrunner for T20I Captaincy
According to sources, Shreyas Iyer could be given the T20I captaincy in place of Suryakumar Yadav. Tilak Varma is also tipped to become the new T20I vice-captain. If this happens, Varma could lead India in the Asian Games, as Iyer will be busy with the ODI assignment against West Indies at home.
Bumrah's Workload Under Scrutiny
The selectors will also assess Jasprit Bumrah's workload before the UK tour. They want him absolutely fit for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka in August. He may be given a break from T20Is, if not ODIs as well.
