Overview
- The first ODI in Dharamsala on June 13 had its toss delayed by persistent rain, with the BCCI confirming the interruption and play dependent on the ground’s drainage and improving conditions.
- Rohit Sharma cleared a Centre of Excellence fitness check and is available to play while Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya have been ruled out of the series with hamstring and leg injuries respectively.
- India have named a new‑look squad to start their World Cup preparations and will use these matches to test reserves, notably Nitish Kumar Reddy as potential pace‑bowling all‑round cover for Hardik and uncapped pacers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar.
- Afghanistan arrive with experienced limited‑overs leaders including the returning Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, giving them a strengthened white‑ball side that can challenge India despite the hosts’ home advantage.
- Selectors view the series as a chance to identify seam options suited to high‑bounce, fast pitches like those expected in South Africa and to manage workloads ahead of a packed schedule that includes an England tour next month.