India’s 2027 World Cup preparations face injury setbacks ahead of Afghanistan series
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirms key absences as India begins a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, with weather and pitch conditions adding complexity to the World Cup warm-up.
India’s campaign to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup commenced on Saturday, June 13, with the first of a three-match series against Afghanistan at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. The match, which begins at 1:30 PM IST following a 1:00 PM toss, serves as the opening fixture for a tour that will conclude in Chennai on June 20.
The Indian squad, led by captain Shubman Gill, enters the series with significant personnel challenges. Former captain Virat Kohli has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya will miss the entire three-match series. Pandya’s absence follows a leg sprain sustained after he had recently recovered from back spasms and received clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.
Despite these injuries, the hosts arrive with momentum from a one-off Test match in Mullanpur earlier in the week, where India defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs. The BCCI has selected a side that includes Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Shreyas Iyer, aiming to maintain competitive form as the team navigates the transition between formats.
Meteorological forecasts present additional variables for the match. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds until June 12, with a yellow alert in place from June 13 to June 16. Match-day conditions in Dharamsala are expected to feature light rain with a 55 per cent chance of precipitation and temperatures ranging between 12°C and 18°C.
The pitch at the HPCA Stadium traditionally favours fast bowlers with the new ball, though scoring becomes more accessible once batters settle, aided by a quick outfield and short boundaries. The venue last hosted an ODI during the 2023 World Cup, where Australia and New Zealand combined for 771 runs. The series will move to Lucknow for the second ODI on June 17 before finishing in Chennai.
Coverage of the match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, with live streaming available on JioStar. Live updates and analysis will be provided by TimesofIndia.com.
