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Why Is Virat Kohli Missing the India-Afghanistan ODI Series? The Real Reason Behind His Absence Finally Revealed
India’s batting icon was initially named in the squad, but a painful setback during the IPL 2026 final forced selectors to make a late change. Here’s what happened.
The absence of Virat Kohli from India’s ongoing ODI series against Afghanistan has sparked plenty of discussion among cricket fans. With India experimenting with different batting combinations at the crucial No. 3 position, many supporters have been wondering why one of the team’s most dependable batters is missing from action.
Now, the reason behind Kohli’s absence has become clear.
Kohli Sidelined After Injury in IPL 2026 Final
According to team sources and reports surrounding the series, Kohli was ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury during the Indian Premier League 2026 final.
The injury occurred while representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the title clash against Gujarat Titans.
Despite the discomfort, Kohli displayed remarkable determination and continued batting. The star batter remained unbeaten on 75 runs from just 42 deliveries, helping RCB successfully chase a target of 156. His innings included nine boundaries and three towering sixes.
Observers noted that towards the latter stages of his knock, Kohli appeared uncomfortable while running between the wickets and relied more heavily on boundary-hitting to keep the scoreboard moving.
The injury eventually forced selectors to withdraw him from India’s squad for the Afghanistan ODI series.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Called Up as Replacement
Following Kohli’s withdrawal, the selection committee drafted in Yashasvi Jaiswal as his replacement.
Jaiswal, who had previously fallen out of India’s ODI plans, was given another opportunity to impress. However, the young opener could not make a significant impact, managing only four runs in the second ODI before being dismissed.
His inclusion highlighted the challenge India faces when trying to replace an experienced player like Kohli, whose consistency at No. 3 has been a cornerstone of the team’s batting lineup for over a decade.
India Experimenting at Number Three
In Kohli’s absence, India have tested multiple options in the middle order.
During the rain-shortened first ODI, Ishan Kishan was promoted to the No. 3 position. In the second match, captain Shubman Gill occupied the role instead.
The experimentation has provided valuable opportunities for players hoping to cement their place ahead of future international assignments.
With the series already secured, the team management may continue assessing different combinations in the final ODI.
India Dominate Afghanistan to Seal Series
While Kohli’s absence was initially seen as a concern, India’s performances on the field have eased those worries.
The Men in Blue comfortably won the opening ODI after bowling Afghanistan out for 194 and chasing the target within 23 overs.
The second match was even more one-sided.
Captain Shubman Gill delivered a masterclass, smashing a breathtaking 154 runs from 110 balls. He received excellent support from Ishan Kishan, who blasted 125 runs off just 79 deliveries.
The duo powered India to a massive total of 402, leaving Afghanistan with a mountain to climb.
Afghanistan never truly threatened the chase and were eventually bowled out for 232, handing India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Will Kohli Return Soon?
For Indian cricket fans, the biggest question remains when Kohli will return to full fitness.
Although no official timeline has been announced, the decision to rest him appears precautionary rather than long-term. With an important international calendar ahead, India’s management will likely avoid rushing one of the country’s most valuable players back into action.
For now, Kohli’s recovery remains the priority, while India’s younger batters continue to make the most of the opportunities created by his temporary absence.
As the final ODI approaches, all eyes will be on Chennai—not only to see whether India complete a clean sweep but also to watch who gets the next chance to fill the shoes of one of cricket’s modern greats.
