Rohit’s comeback, Virat’s absence: Morkel maps out India’s approach to the Afghanistan ODIs

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has refuted claims of concerns over Rohit Sharma’s fitness as the team returns to action for the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan from June 13 in Dharamsala. Morkel also indicated that India will give the in-form batters chances, with three players getting an opportunity to fill Virat Kohli’s No.3 slot during the series.

India will start the preparations for the ODI World Cup, which is likely to be held between October and November 21 in the African continent, with South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia set to host the matches.

The Men in Blue will miss the services of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. Kohli and Hardik have been ruled out due to injuries, while Bumrah was not considered due to workload management.

There were concerns over Rohit Sharma’s chances after he injured his hamstring during the IPL 2026, having played as an impact player for the Mumbai Indians. Rohit cleared the fitness test and was permitted to join the team.

According to reports, the right-handed batter practiced wearing different thigh pads to save his injured hamstring. However, Morkel dismissed all concerns, saying the 38-year-old is available for the series.

Rohit was among the first batters to practice at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.

“I didn’t notice the thigh pad. I don’t think there is an issue. He passed fitness tests and is ready to go. The balls come at high speed, and you want to protect yourself even if there is a slight niggle. I am sure there is nothing to worry about, and Rohit is training and moving well. It is exciting to see him.

“Always nice to have him in the team. He brings calmness to the team, and it is positive news for the team. He is training and moving well. He is also excited to play,” he added.

Morkel hinted that Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan could be tried at the No.3 slot in Virat Kohli’s absence.

Kishan was seen wearing the wicket-keeping gloves on the eve of the first game, while Rahul, who bats at No.5, could move up the order.

Shreyas Iyer, the vice-captain, is also in the fray. India’s batting looks capable despite missing players like Kohli and Hardik.

“We will play around with the No.3 slot in the Afghanistan series. It could be Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. We have a few games coming up, and we will give opportunities to different guys.

“It is an attempt to give ourselves a fair idea in terms of where we stand when it comes to different team combinations.”

India will rely on Nitish Kumar Reddy in the middle order, and the all-rounder is expected to contribute across departments and replace Hardik Pandya.