India Consider Ruturaj Gaikwad As Virat Kohli Replacement For Afghanistan ODIs
Gaikwad likely replaces Kohli as India reshuffles ODI squad.
Ruturaj Gaikwad has emerged as a leading contender to replace Virat Kohli in India’s ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Afghanistan, should the senior batter fail to recover from a hamstring injury in time. Kohli reportedly sustained the injury during the IPL 2026 final, and early assessments suggest he is unlikely to be risked for the series, with medical staff advising a short rehabilitation break.
According to reports, the selection committee is closely monitoring Kohli’s recovery while simultaneously preparing contingency options for the middle order. Ruturaj Gaikwad is believed to be the frontrunner in this scenario, with selectors viewing him as a like-for-like replacement given his recent form and adaptability in the batting order. His ability to anchor innings and rotate strike has strengthened his case for a return to the senior ODI setup.
Gaikwad’s credentials have been further reinforced by his recent performances in India A cricket. The Maharashtra batter was drafted into the India A squad after Riyan Parag was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. He also featured in India’s ODI tour of South Africa, where he registered a century while batting in the middle order, showcasing his capability to handle international pressure and conditions.
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A potential promotion for Gaikwad to the senior ODI squad could trigger a chain of changes in the India A setup. Reports suggest that Rajat Patidar is being considered as a replacement for Gaikwad in the India A squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour. Patidar, who recently captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden IPL title, has impressed selectors with his leadership qualities and consistent performances across formats.
The India A tri-series involving Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A is scheduled to begin on June 9, adding urgency to finalising squad adjustments. Selectors are expected to make decisions based on player fitness, workload management, and recent form, especially with multiple overlapping series on the calendar.
Meanwhile, fitness concerns are not limited to Kohli. Rohit Sharma’s availability is also subject to medical clearance after he returned from a hamstring injury during the IPL season. Although he has resumed competitive cricket with Mumbai Indians, he has yet to complete the BCCI’s mandatory fitness assessment at the Centre of Excellence. In the event of any setback, Yashasvi Jaiswal is being considered as a backup opening option, having previously served as a reserve in India’s ODI setup.
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