India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, mentioned that the fitness of senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be evaluated before the upcoming three-game ODI series against Afghanistan. Rohit’s participation depends on his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained during IPL 2026, while Kohli’s availability is uncertain due to a hamstring strain suffered during the final match for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The team is also monitoring the fitness of seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who faced back spasms causing him to miss some IPL 2026 games.
Official updates on the players’ fitness will be provided after the medical team assesses their conditions. Despite the significance of Kohli and Rohit’s potential absence, the team will follow standard protocols in determining their fitness for the series. The coaching staff will make necessary adjustments based on the players’ health status and official announcements will be made accordingly.
Ten Doeschate addressed the issue of centrally contracted players participating in the IPL despite carrying injuries, emphasizing the need for individual management. He highlighted the importance of players being in optimal condition for international duties and stressed the balance required between domestic and international commitments. While acknowledging the challenges posed by the IPL schedule, he emphasized the necessity of ensuring players are both injury-free and physically prepared for crucial international fixtures.
