IndiaEyes Series Sweep as Rohit Sharma’s Availability Looms Over Probable XI

Following a dominant win in the opening ODI at Dharamshala, India prepares to host Afghanistan in the second match on Wednesday, June 17.

The contest now moves to the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, where Shubman Gill’s side aims to clinch the three‑match series.

With a 1‑0 lead and the 2027 ODI World Cup preparations underway, the management seeks to evaluate bench depth.

Rohit Sharma’s Availability in Question

The primary focus ahead of the Lucknow encounter centers on veteran batter Rohit Sharma. He sustained a wrist impact during the first ODI, received treatment on the field, continued batting, but appeared uncomfortable before being run out following a mix‑up with captain Shubman Gill.

Should Rohit be unavailable, dynamic opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is primed to replace him, creating a new opening pair of Gill and Jaiswal.

The inaugural ODI highlighted India’s newcomers, with left‑arm spinner Harsh Dubey and pace sensation Gurnoor Brar each taking three wickets, dramatically restricting Afghanistan’s innings. Gurnoor’s figures of 3/27 complemented Dubey’s 3/47.

Given the pitch’s historic assistance to bowlers, India may introduce another debutant. Prince Yadav, who emerged as a standout for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026, possesses strong familiarity with the conditions; his 16 wickets from 14 IPL matches underscore his potential.

In contrast, Kuldeep Yadav, still seeking rhythm, is likely to be rested, with Harsh Dubey retaining his place.

India’s Probable XI for the Second ODI

The likely Indian lineup for the second ODI is: Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wicket‑keeper), Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harsh Dubey, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, and Prince Yadav.

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