• Source:JND

India vs Afghanistan ODI Series: India is all set to return to the 50-over format this Saturday with the first ODI against Afghanistan at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. This marks the Men in Blue's second One-Day International series of the year, following a nearly six-month hiatus from the format. Looking to bounce back from their ODI series loss to New Zealand in January, India will use this series to test new combinations and build momentum ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

In the absence of Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue will look to test new options at the crucial number 3 position. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal has been named as his replacement in the squad, he is unlikely to break into his position for tomorrow's clash, but the decision depends on the opening combination. With the "Chase Master" sidelined by a rare injury, all eyes will be on whoever gets the nod to fill those massive shoes in the playing 11.

IND vs AFG: Who Will Replace Virat Kohli At No. 3 Position?

Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan and middle-order mainstay KL Rahul are the frontrunners to fill the void left by Kohli in the playing XI. During the training sessions, Kishan was spotted putting in extensive work with the wicketkeeping gloves, while Rahul focused on high-catching drills in the outfield.

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Judging by these training routines, Rahul appears poised to take over Kohli's number 3 spot, leaving Kishan to handle the wicketkeeping duties and anchor the middle order at number 4 or 5. However, the door isn't completely shut for Yashasvi Jaiswal. India bowling coach Morne Morkel dropped hints that the youngster could be tested in the number 3 position later in the series.

"In terms of that number three slot, that's something that in this series we'll play around with. Even if it's Ishan or KL or Yashasvi, it's a nice opportunity now. We've got a couple of one-day games coming up and we'll give guys opportunity in different slots," Morkel said as quoted by PTI.

"Just to give ourselves a better idea in terms of how we can go and structure the team and have different options," said the former South Africa pacer.

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Morkel further boasted about having Rohit Sharma in the playing 11 and said that his experience will help the young side. Rohit Sharma too was part of the training session, having regained full fitness following his hamstring injury.

"He has passed all his fitness tests. He's cleared and ready to go. Even if there is a slight niggle, but I can assure you there's nothing wrong with Rohit. He's moving well and training well. So, excited to see," Morkel added.


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