Dharamsala: After a commanding win in the one-off Test, India are set to lock horns with Afghanistan in the first ODI of the three-match series on June 13 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala. The match marks the beginning of India’s preparations in the 50-over format as the team builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Led by Shubman Gill, India will look to bounce back from a mixed start to his ODI captaincy tenure. Having lost two out of three recent ODI series, Gill, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, will aim to fine-tune combinations and build a stable core.

Rohit Sharma returns, Kohli misses out

A key storyline heading into the match is the return of Rohit Sharma, who has regained fitness after dealing with a hamstring niggle during IPL 2026. His availability provides stability at the top of the order, where he is expected to play a crucial role.

However, India will miss the services of Virat Kohli, who has been ruled out due to a rare hamstring injury. Kohli’s absence opens up opportunities for other batters to step up, particularly in the middle order.

With around 25 ODIs lined up before the next World Cup, this series offers India a valuable chance to test bench strength and explore new combinations.

Focus on team combinations and squad depth

The ODI series against Afghanistan is not just about results but also about long-term planning. India’s think tank is expected to experiment with player roles, especially in the batting order and all-rounder slots.

Young players will be keen to grab their chances, while experienced names will look to cement their positions in the squad. The conditions in Dharamsala, known for assisting pace bowlers, could also influence team selection.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, will aim to challenge India with their spin-heavy attack and emerging batting line-up.

Match timing and venue details

The first ODI between India and Afghanistan will be played on Saturday, June 13, at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.

  • Match start time: 1:30 PM IST
  • Toss timing: 1:00 PM IST

The scenic venue in Dharamsala is expected to provide an exciting backdrop for the contest, with favourable conditions for both batters and bowlers.

Live telecast and streaming information

Cricket fans can catch the live action of the India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI through the following platforms:

  • Live telecast: Star Sports Network
  • Live streaming: JioHotstar app and website

These broadcast details have been provided by the official rights holders, ensuring wide accessibility for viewers across the country.

Conclusion

As India begin their ODI campaign against Afghanistan, the first match in Dharamsala promises both excitement and crucial insights into the team’s future direction. With key players returning and some missing out, the spotlight will be on how India balances experience with experimentation. Fans can look forward to an engaging contest as both teams aim to start the series on a strong note.