Rohit Sharma's participation in the upcoming three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan is still not certain as the veteran batter has been asked to prove his fitness and report to BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Rohit Sharma asked to prove his fitness to participate in AFG ODIs
Sports Tak understands that Rohit Sharma's availability for the Afghanistan series is subject to him clearing a fitness test. Apparently, Rohit was given a programme to improve his running load and enhance it. Now he will have to report to CoE, where final call will be taken after his thorough fitness assessment.
"Post IPL 2026, Rohit was given a programme to improve his running load and enhance it. Now he has been asked to report to CoE to get his clearance for RTP," top source told Sports Tak.
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Rohit's injury comes as double whammy for India after 'Kohli' blow
This sudden injury crisis has doubled up Indian team management's headache. The upcoming assignment, which kicks off on June 14 in the challenging conditions of Dharamsala, has already been disrupted by Virat Kohli's absence. Which means, if Rohit ends up missing the outing against Afghanistan, India will be sans two of their most potent and veteran batters. While a replacement for Kohli is expected to be named in the coming days, the national selectors are now forced to draw up further contingency plans in case India's other veteran stalwart cannot take the field.
The primary concern centers around Rohit, whose availability for the series has remained under a cloud of uncertainty. The veteran opener's fitness has been heavily scrutinised ever since he sustained a troublesome hamstring injury during the recently concluded IPL season. If Rohit fails to prove his fitness in time for the opening match, the team management will be left with a massive leadership and batting void at the top of the order.
Given that India is also scheduled to tour England for a crucial white-ball series this July, the team management and medical staff are expected to adopt a highly cautious approach. Rather than risking long-term damage, they will likely avoid rushing back any player who is currently carrying injury concerns, prioritizing long-term fitness over immediate availability.
Adding to the selection headaches, fresh fitness concerns have emerged around star all-rounder Hardik Pandya. He is currently being closely monitored at the Centre of Excellence following a recurrence of back issues that previously forced him to sit out a couple of matches during the IPL. Much like Rohit, Pandya is slated to undergo a rigorous fitness assessment before the medical team takes a definitive call on his participation in the upcoming series.
Yashasvi Jaiswal may chip in if Rohit fails fitness test
Should Rohit fail to clear his impending fitness test, young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to be the absolute frontrunner to receive an ODI squad recall. The explosive left-hander has firmly established himself as India’s primary backup opening option during recent 50-over assignments and continues to be held in incredibly high regard by the national selection committee.
Jaiswal's case for a return to the format is further strengthened by his stellar track record in international cricket. In his most recent ODI outing for the national team, the dynamic opener showcased his immense potential by smashing a brilliant maiden century, making him the most natural and form-vetted replacement to step up to the top of the order.