Sports
oi-Swastika Sruti
The much-awaited first ODI between India and Afghanistan in Dharamsala has been hit by bad weather, with the toss delayed because of persistent rain at the venue. Continuous showers have disrupted preparations, raising concerns over whether the match will begin on time.
The first India vs. Afghanistan ODI in Dharamsala has seen its toss delayed due to persistent rain. Player availability is impacted, with Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya absent due to injury, Jasprit Bumrah rested, and Rohit Sharma returning.
Live visuals from the HPCA Stadium showed steady rainfall with the entire playing square covered. Ground staff were seen working despite the rain, while a couple of supersoppers remained in operation in an effort to remove excess water whenever conditions allow.
Rain Forces Delay in Toss
Cricket fans hoping for an exciting start to the ODI series were left waiting as rain continued to pour over Dharamsala. The weather had already caused problems on Friday, and further showers on Saturday morning made conditions even more challenging.
The outfield and pitch remain fully protected under covers, with ground staff monitoring the situation closely. According to weather forecasts, there is a 60-70 per cent chance of rain during the day, making it difficult to predict when play can begin.
Match officials are expected to provide further updates depending on how quickly the weather improves.
Ground Staff Remain on Standby
Despite the rain, preparations at the venue have not stopped. Supersoppers and drainage equipment are being used whenever there is a break in the showers to ensure the ground is ready if conditions improve.
Dharamsala is known for its picturesque setting, but it has also witnessed weather interruptions on several occasions due to its location in the Himalayan foothills. Fans and players alike will be hoping for clearer skies as the day progresses.
India Likely to Make Multiple Changes
The opening ODI of the series is also expected to see several changes in India’s playing XI because of injuries and workload management.
Virat Kohli Ruled Out
Star batter Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series after suffering a distal semimembranosus tendon tear. In his absence, the selectors have added young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal to the squad.
It remains uncertain whether Jaiswal will make an immediate debut in the ODI setup, as wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is also in contention for a place in the playing XI. Team management is likely to make a final decision based on conditions and team balance.
Hardik Pandya Misses the Series
India have also been dealt a blow with the absence of all-rounder Hardik Pandya. He had been undergoing intensive training at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and was reportedly close to full fitness before sustaining another leg injury.
With Pandya unavailable, Nitish Kumar Reddy is expected to slot into the side as his replacement and could get an opportunity to strengthen his place in the national team.
Fresh Faces in India’s Bowling Attack
India’s pace attack will also have a different look for the opening ODI. Senior fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the series, opening the door for young domestic performers.
Promising pacers Gurnoor Brar and Prince Yadav, both of whom impressed in domestic cricket, have been called up to the squad. One of them could make the final playing XI depending on the team combination.
Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna are expected to lead the pace department.
Rohit Sharma Returns to Full Fitness
There is some good news for Indian fans as senior opener Rohit Sharma has regained full fitness and is available for selection. Rohit had been considered doubtful for the series but successfully completed his recovery and was cleared by the BCCI medical team.
He is expected to open the innings alongside captain Shubman Gill, giving India an experienced and aggressive top-order combination.
While discussions around team combinations continue, the biggest factor at the moment remains the weather. The persistent rain has already delayed the toss, and further showers could reduce the number of overs or even threaten the match if conditions do not improve.
For now, players, officials, and fans are waiting for the skies to clear. With both teams eager to begin the ODI series on a winning note, everyone will be hoping that Dharamsala’s weather offers a window for cricket later in the day.
