New Delhi: Former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has been selected for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan; however, his fitness raises significant concerns. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains uncertain about his condition, following his absence from a considerable portion of the IPL 2026 season due to a hamstring injury. Even after returning to play, Rohit has not spent adequate time in the field.
In the recent match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rohit was substituted again, with Allah Ghazanfar stepping in as the Impact Player. BCCI officials doubt whether Rohit can sustain the physical demands of ODI cricket, which requires him to be active for a full 50 overs. While there have been observations regarding his weight loss, there is still ambiguity about his capacity to both field and bat effectively for extended periods.
Looking ahead to the ODI World Cup next year, Rohit will be approaching 41 years of age, further contributing to BCCI’s apprehensions. “Rohit didn’t report to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence for three weeks. Although he has become lean, there are concerns regarding his body’s ability to handle the rigors of high-performance sport. Fielding for 50 overs in ODIs is different from the IPL, where the Impact Player rule exists. As players near 40, recovery takes longer,” a BCCI source informed Times of India.
Similarly, Hardik Pandya’s availability for the Afghanistan ODIs is contingent upon his fitness. He has not participated in matches for the Mumbai Indians for nearly three weeks, returning briefly against KKR. Officials are concerned because Hardik has not communicated regarding his fitness after experiencing back spasms. “He was unaware of fitness concerns until 48 hours before the selection meeting. After suffering back spasms in Chennai, he hasn’t played since. While he has resumed training at Reliance’s facility and Wankhede Stadium, it remains unclear how he will demonstrate his fitness. Selectors are primarily worried about his ability to bowl 10 overs,” the source added.
The selection committee is also exploring backup options for the opening combination as limited ODI matches remain before the World Cup. Concerns about squad depth in the event of injuries have led to discussions regarding additional specialist openers alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan.
Currently, Virat Kohli’s fitness and form appear to be superior to many cricketers in India. However, it is understood that Kohli and Rohit can no longer be viewed as interchangeable. “A decisive resolution regarding Rohit needs to be reached in consultation with the BCCI medical team,” the source stated.
