NEW DELHI: Is Virat Kohli in danger of sitting out India’s next ODI assignment against Afghanistan? The discussion has intensified after reports surfaced that the former India captain picked up a hamstring problem during the IPL 2026 final. While nothing has been officially confirmed, India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate suggested that losing Kohli would be a major blow for the side.
India and Afghanistan are set to play a one-off Test starting June 6 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. Following that, the two teams will meet again in a three-match ODI series beginning June 13.
Speaking on Kohli’s possible availability, ten Doeschate said: “Official updates will come, but it is always a big setback if a player like Virat is not available.”
Kohli is widely expected to miss the ODI series due to a hamstring injury that he sustained during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL 2026 title-winning run. It is also understood that Kohli is currently in Europe on holiday after playing a key role in RCB’s second consecutive championship.
The 37-year-old had a standout IPL 2026 campaign, finishing as RCB’s top run-getter with 675 runs at an average of 56.25. He struck one century and five half-centuries across the tournament, and then sealed the season with an unbeaten 75 in the final against Gujarat Titans.
Kohli reportedly felt discomfort in his right hamstring while batting in the final on May 31. Even with the injury, he carried on after receiving treatment, and the affected area was heavily strapped as he continued his innings.
