New Delhi: India have made major changes to their ODI squad for the upcoming three match series against Afghanistan, with several senior and fringe players dropped as the selectors look to reshape the team ahead of future international assignments. The series, beginning on June 14, will continue under the leadership of Shubman Gill, while Shreyas Iyer remains vice captain. Senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have retained their places in the squad.
One of the biggest developments is the return of Hardik Pandya, who missed the previous ODI series against New Zealand. His inclusion, however, remains subject to fitness clearance. In contrast, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has been left out despite scoring an unbeaten century against South Africa earlier this year.
The wicketkeeping department has also witnessed a significant change, with Rishabh Pant dropped from the squad. Ishan Kishan has earned a recall following strong performances in domestic cricket, the 2026 T20 World Cup and IPL 2026. Pant’s difficult run of form, including an underwhelming IPL season, reportedly influenced the decision.
Senior all rounder Ravindra Jadeja and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj have also been omitted. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Jadeja had been rested as the management assesses options for future overseas conditions, especially ahead of the South Africa tour cycle.
Young all rounder Harsh Dubey replaces Jadeja, while Delhi pacer Prince Yadav comes in for Siraj. Harshit Rana misses out due to a knee injury suffered before the T20 World Cup, paving the way for Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar to receive his maiden ODI call up.
Agarkar also clarified that Mohammed Shami was not considered for the ODI squad as the medical feedback currently suggests he is fit only for T20 cricket. Despite Shami’s steady IPL performances, selectors preferred to invest in younger pace options for the Afghanistan series.
