Rohit’s Fitness in Focus, Virat’s Stand-In Identified: Morkel Reveals India’s ODI Plans vs Afghanistan

Rohit Fit and Ready, India to Test Kohli Replacements in Afghanistan ODIs: Morkel

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has allayed concerns surrounding Rohit Sharma’s fitness ahead of the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 13 in Dharamsala. The former South Africa pacer confirmed that the Indian captain has fully recovered from his hamstring issue and is ready to return to international action.

The Afghanistan series marks the beginning of India’s final stretch of preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the team management keen to assess squad combinations in the absence of several key players. While Jasprit Bumrah has been rested, Virat Kohli is unavailable after sustaining an injury during the IPL 2026 final.

Rohit, who battled a hamstring problem during the IPL season and often featured as an Impact Player for Mumbai Indians, had sparked fresh speculation after being seen training with additional thigh protection. However, Morkel dismissed any fitness concerns and insisted the veteran opener had successfully completed all required fitness assessments.

“I didn’t even notice that. It just shows that I don’t think there’s any issue. He’s passed all his fitness tests and is ready to go. When you’re facing high-speed bowling, extra protection is normal. Rohit is moving well, training well and is excited to be back,” Morkel said on the eve of the opening ODI.

The bowling coach also highlighted Rohit’s value beyond the runs he scores, pointing to the calmness and experience he brings to the dressing room.

With Kohli unavailable, India are set to use the series to explore options for the crucial No. 3 position. Morkel revealed that Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan are all in contention to bat in the role as the team management evaluates different combinations.

“That’s something we’ll experiment with during this series. Whether it’s Ishan, KL or Yashasvi, it’s a good opportunity to give players exposure in different positions. We want to understand our options better and build flexibility in the batting order,” he said.

India’s batting line-up still boasts considerable depth, with vice-captain Shreyas Iyer expected to play a key role in the middle order. The team will also look towards Nitish Kumar Reddy to strengthen the lower middle order and contribute with both bat and ball after Hardik Pandya was ruled out through injury.

The Afghanistan ODIs are expected to provide valuable answers for India’s think tank as they begin shaping their plans for the next World Cup cycle.