India and Afghanistan They will face each other in the three-match ODI series starting on June 13. The series comes right after the one-off Test and promises to be an exciting contest between two sides full of match winners.
For India, the series offers an opportunity to continue to deepen ahead of future ICC events, while Afghanistan will be eager to test themselves against one of the strongest ODI sides in world cricket. With a combination of experienced performers and rising stars on both sides, few players could play a decisive role throughout the series.
Players to watch out for in IND vs AFG ODI series
The upcoming ODI series between India and Afghanistan features some of the most exciting talent in international cricket. While India boast a mix of proven performers and emerging stars, Afghanistan come with a line-up capable of challenging any opposition with their explosive batting and dangerous spin attack. These five players can have a huge impact on the outcome of the series.
1. Prince Yadav (India)
One of the most exciting additions to India’s ODI squad, Prince Yadav earned his first call-up in domestic cricket and after an impressive rise IPL 2026. The youngster displayed his bowling ability with pace, accuracy and composure while representing the Delhi pacer. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Prince finished IPL 2026 with 16 wickets in 14 matches and was consistently a troublesome bat with his yorkers and hard lengths. Outstanding performances in front of him Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emphasized his ability to perform under pressure. Given the opportunity, the youngster could provide India with an exciting new ball option and a genuine wicketkeeping threat in the middle overs.
2. Shreyas Iyer (India)
Shreyas Iyer will bear significant responsibility in India’s middle order during the series. The stylish right-hander has established himself as one of India’s most reliable ODI batsmen and is particularly effective against spin bowling.
His ability to spin shots, form partnerships and accelerate when required makes him a vital figure against Afghanistan’s powerful attack. With vast experience in the format and a strong ODI record, Iyer is expected to anchor India’s innings and guide the young players around him.
3. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
Yashasvi Jaiswal has rapidly emerged as one of India’s most exciting batting prospects across formats. The aggressive left-handed opener has consistently shown his ability to dominate the bowlers and put opposition attacks under immediate pressure.
The ODI series presents another opportunity for Jaiswala to cement his place in India’s white-ball plans. His fearless approach against both pace and spin makes him a dangerous proposition, especially during the powerplay where he can quickly change the momentum in India’s favour.
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4. Allah Ghazanfar (Afghanistan)
Only 19 years old, Allah Ghazanfar has already established himself as one of Afghanistan’s most exciting bowling talents. The mystery spinner has a wide variety, including a deceptive carrom ball, making it difficult for beaters to choose.
Ghazanfar has made an excellent start to his ODI career, picking up wickets regularly while maintaining an excellent average. His performances in IPL 2026 further enhanced his reputation as a true match winner. On spin-friendly surfaces, he could be Afghanistan’s biggest weapon against India’s formidable batting line-up.
5. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
When Afghanistan take the field in white ball cricket, Rahmanullah Gurbaz remains one of their most dangerous players. The keeper-batsman has developed a reputation for attacking the strikers from the first ball and can single-handedly change the course of a match.
The batsman’s aggressive style is ideally suited to ODI cricket, especially as the restrictions during the game allow him to maximize his scoring opportunities. Having gained significant experience in Indian conditions through franchise cricket, he will be keen to provide Afghanistan with strong starts and put pressure on India’s bowling attack.
Also READ: Abhishek Nayar picks India’s XI for the first ODI against Afghanistan
