India will look to seal the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan when the two teams meet in the second One-Day International at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. Having secured a comfortable victory in the series opener, the hosts enter the contest with momentum on their side and the opportunity to take an unassailable 2-0 lead.

The match also presents a significant milestone for captain Shubman Gill, who is aiming to register his first ODI series win since taking over the leadership role. Gill led from the front in the opening game, producing an unbeaten 84-run knock that guided India to a convincing seven-wicket victory in Dharamshala.

India's young bowling attack also impressed, with debutants Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey claiming three wickets each to restrict Afghanistan and underline the depth of talent available to the team management.

Gill's India Look to Continue Momentum

India's dominant performance in the first ODI has given the team management the flexibility to experiment with combinations. The captain recently indicated that opportunities could be provided to players waiting on the sidelines as the team continues to assess options ahead of future international assignments.

Players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav could come into contention for selection as India seek to balance winning the series with building squad depth.

Gill remains the centerpiece of India's batting unit. Fresh from a successful IPL season and carrying excellent form into the series, the right-hander will once again be expected to anchor the innings.

The Indian bowling unit, despite the absence of senior stars, showed discipline and composure in the first match. Another strong showing could strengthen their claims for a more regular place in the national setup.

Afghanistan Seek Stronger Team Performance

Afghanistan enter the second ODI under pressure but not without positives. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz delivered one of the standout performances of the series opener, scoring a brilliant century and becoming the fastest Afghan batter to register an ODI hundred against India.

However, the visitors struggled to find support around him as wickets fell regularly at the other end. Afghanistan's batting lineup will need greater contributions from the middle order if they hope to challenge India in Lucknow.

The bowling department also has room for improvement. Spin spearhead Rashid Khan remains Afghanistan's biggest threat and will be crucial on a surface expected to assist slower bowlers.

With conditions likely to suit spin, Afghanistan will be hoping their experienced attack can put greater pressure on India's batting lineup and force the series into a decider.

Key Battles to Watch

One of the most anticipated contests will be between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and India's pace attack. Gurbaz looked in excellent touch in the opening match and will again be Afghanistan's primary source of runs at the top of the order.

Another intriguing battle involves Rashid Khan against India's experienced batters. The leg-spinner has often troubled top-order players around the world and could play a decisive role if the pitch offers turn.

India, meanwhile, will rely on their in-form captain and young bowling group to maintain control and close out the series.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow has traditionally offered assistance to spin bowlers, particularly as the match progresses. The average first-innings score at the venue remains relatively modest, suggesting that batting could become challenging if conditions slow down.

Teams winning the toss may consider batting first and putting scoreboard pressure on the opposition.

Weather conditions are expected to remain clear throughout the day, with no significant threat of rain. A full match is anticipated, providing ideal conditions for a crucial contest in the series.

Match Details

Match: India vs Afghanistan, 2nd ODI

Venue: Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

Date: June 17, 2026

Time: 1:30 PM IST (Toss: 1:00 PM IST)

Broadcast: Star Sports Network

Streaming: JioHotstar

With India aiming to wrap up the series and Afghanistan desperate to stay alive, an intense contest is expected in Lucknow as both teams battle for momentum and valuable international success.

Virat Kohli, currently away from international cricket after being ruled out of the Afghanistan ODI series, was spotted enjoying quality family time with wife Anushka Sharma and children in London on Tuesday.

A picture of the star cricketer holding his son Akaay in his arms went viral on social media, with fans flooding the internet with reactions. Another snap showed Kohli and Anushka at a park in London, marking a rare public appearance since the couple relocated to the UK last year.

The sighting comes amid ongoing speculation about Kohli's career trajectory. The 37-year-old has stepped away from T20 internationals after the 2024 World Cup and retired from Test cricket the following year, remaining active only in the ODI format for India.

 Brett Lee's high praise for Kohli

Former Australian pace legend Brett Lee has sparked fresh buzz with his assessment of Kohli's stature in world cricket. Speaking on the 'Silly Point' podcast, Lee was asked which current Australian player would have suited the 'Golden Era' Australian team.

"Kohli, I know he's getting towards the back end of his career as well, and I had the chance to play against him. Kohli in his heyday would've fitted into the Australian cricket team," Lee said.

The 48-year-old backed his statement, citing Kohli's aggression, fitness capacity, and work ethic. "Contrary to his on-field image, Kohli is a great guy off the field," Lee added, noting that this quality makes his personality synonymous with the Australian pride the team banks itself on.

Lee's comments have reignited discussions about Kohli's legacy, particularly given his 80 international centuries and reputation as one of the game's greatest modern-day batsmen.

 Why Kohli moved to London

Kohli and Anushka Sharma relocated to London in 2024, seeking to escape constant media attention and public scrutiny in India. The couple has been raising their children in what they describe as a more private, normal environment away from the relentless spotlight.

According to sources close to the family, they still visit India for professional commitments but prefer the peace and anonymity London offers. The decision was confirmed by Dr Sriram Nene and Kohli's childhood coach, citing the need for family privacy and a balanced life.

Kohli's absence from the Afghanistan series has given him an extended break. Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting his return to competitive cricket. Speculation about his ODI future continues, though no official announcement has been made regarding his long-term plans.

Further details about Kohli's return to the Indian squad are awaited.

With Virat Kohli ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Yashasvi Jaiswal emerges as the frontrunner to bat at No. 3; Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya cleared for selection

India’s men’s cricket team is set to experiment with both personnel and batting order in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 14 in Dharamshala. This marks the first bilateral ODI series between the two nations on Indian soil, and team management is likely to hand out at least two debut caps across the rubber.

Sources close to the selection committee confirmed that Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have received fitness clearance from the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, making them available for the series. However, Virat Kohli’s absence due to a hamstring strain has opened up the crucial No. 3 slot.

Opening Pair Sorted

Captain Shubman Gill is expected to partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. Gill has been in formidable touch this year, amassing 732 runs in IPL 2026 and following it up with 490 runs in 11n international innings across formats. Rohit, despite a mixed IPL campaign plagued by minor injuries, still managed 650 runs in 14 games – including two hundreds – and finished as India’s second-highest ODI run-getter in 2025.

No Kohli, Jaiswal in Contention

With Kohli ruled out, the BCCI has officially named Yashasvi Jaiswal as his replacement. The left-hander has played only four ODIs in 2025 but scored 171 runs including a century. Ishan Kishan remains an option for the middle order, though team management prefers KL Rahul at No. 5, making Jaiswal the likeliest choice for the one-drop position.

Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is set to bat at No. 4, followed by Rahul at five and Hardik Pandya at six.

Hardik’s Form Under Scanner

IPL 2026 was a forgettable season for the Mumbai Indians all-rounder. In ten innings, Hardik scored just 206 runs and picked only four wickets across nine bowling appearances. His ability to bowl a full quota of ten overs remains an unresolved concern.

“The sports science team has cleared him for competitive cricket, but match situations will be the real test,” a team insider said. If Hardik is rested or fails to deliver, Nitish Reddy – who smashed 302 runs in 14 IPL games this year – is expected to get a look-in.

All-Rounder Puzzle

Washington Sundar and Hardik will form the core all-round foundation. Washington was impressive against Australia in the third ODI, taking four wickets, and carried that form into the home series against South Africa. In case Hardik misses out, Nitish Reddy provides a like-for-like replacement.

With Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel not part of the squad, Vidarbha’s Harsh Dubey is in line for an ODI debut. Dubey finished as the highest wicket-taker in Ranji Trophy 2024-25 with 69 scalps, playing a key role in Vidarbha’s title win.

Pacer Face-Off: Arshdeep or Prince?

Arshdeep Singh has been India’s pace mainstay across formats, but his tendency to concede extras – especially wide deliveries – remains a recurring issue. “When he loses his line, especially the wide yorker, boundaries flow to third man and fine leg,” a bowling coach familiar with his game noted.

Prince Yadav, meanwhile, has impressed with his disciplined length. The youngster claimed the prized wicket of Virat Kohli in IPL 2026 and finished with 16 wickets in 14 games at an economy of 8.83. With head coach Gautam Gambhir keen to audition new names, Prince could get the nod over Arshdeep in at least one ODI.

Gurnoor Brar, the 6-foot-5 Punjab pacer who took 11 wickets in eight Vijay Hazare matches, is also expected to feature.

Possible Playing XI

Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul  

Batters: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain)  

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey, Nitish Reddy  

Bowlers: Prince Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh

Series Schedule

The three ODIs will be played on June 14 (Dharamshala), June 17 (Lucknow) and June 20 (Chennai). All matches start at 1:30 PM IST.

India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI: A Test of Middle-Order Resolve

The IND vs NZ 2nd ODI in Rajkot has turned into a gripping contest, with India crossing the 200-run mark despite a disciplined bowling effort from New Zealand. After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell opted to bowl first, a decision that paid early dividends as India lost key wickets in clusters.

While the Men in Blue aim to seal the series with a win, the Black Caps have shown remarkable resilience, keeping the hosts under constant pressure through the middle overs.

Strong Opening, Sudden Collapse

India got off to a steady start with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill stitching together a solid opening partnership. Gill looked in sublime touch, registering a fluent 47-ball fifty, while Rohit completed 7,000 ODI runs in Asia, underlining his consistency.

However, momentum shifted dramatically once Kristian Clarke dismissed Rohit, triggering a mini-collapse. Gill’s dismissal for 56, followed by quick wickets of Shreyas Iyer (8) and Virat Kohli (23), slowed India’s scoring rate and handed New Zealand control.

KL Rahul Stands Tall Under Pressure

In challenging conditions, KL Rahul’s fifty proved vital for India. Displaying composure and smart shot selection, Rahul reached his half-century off 52 balls, guiding India past the crucial 200-run mark.

Batting alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Rahul added stability during a phase where New Zealand’s bowlers tightened the screws. Their 73-run partnership offered hope of a competitive total before Bracewell produced a moment of brilliance, dismissing Jadeja with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort.

Bracewell and Clarke Impress for New Zealand

New Zealand’s bowling performance has been one of discipline and smart execution. Captain Michael Bracewell led from the front, breaking partnerships at key moments, while debutant Kristian Clarke made a strong impression by removing Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer.

The Kiwis’ strategy of applying pressure through dot balls worked effectively, forcing Indian batters into risky shots.

Why This Match Matters Right Now

With India leading the series 1-0, the IND vs NZ 2nd ODI carries high stakes. A win for India would seal the series, while New Zealand are fighting to stay alive and force a decider. The match also highlights India’s ongoing middle-order concerns and New Zealand’s emerging young talent.

Conclusion: All Eyes on the Final Overs

As the innings progresses, India’s final total will define the chase on a batting-friendly Rajkot pitch. KL Rahul’s calm under pressure may well be the difference, but New Zealand’s disciplined bowling ensures the contest remains finely balanced.

This match is shaping up to be a classic reminder that in ODI cricket, momentum can change in a matter of overs — and series fortunes can hinge on one crucial partnership.

In a dazzling display of cricketing prowess, Virat Kohli etched his name deeper into the annals of history during India's thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI on January 11, 2026, at Vadodara's BCA Stadium. Kohli's unbeaten chase anchored by 93 runs not only sealed the win but also propelled him to the Virat Kohli 28000 runs milestone, making him the fastest player to achieve it and the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar.

This achievement comes amid a resurgent phase for Indian cricket, where veterans like Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to inspire amid evolving team dynamics. As the sport grapples with T20 dominance, Kohli's ODI masterclass underscores the enduring appeal of 50-over cricket, especially with the next World Cup on the horizon.

Match Highlights: A Nail-Biting Chase

India chased down New Zealand's 300/8, thanks to Kohli's steady 93 and KL Rahul's explosive finish with a hat-trick of boundaries. Captain Shubman Gill, surviving a dropped catch, contributed 56, while Rohit Sharma added 26 with two sixes.

New Zealand started strong with Devon Conway (56) and Henry Nicholls (62), but India's bowlers clawed back. The game, the first international at BCA Stadium, lived up to the hype.

Before play, BCCI honored the "Ro-Ko" duo—Rohit and Kohli—with officials like President Mithun Manhas and ICC Chair Jay Shah present. This nod to legends highlights cricket's cultural reverence in India, boosting fan engagement in a digital era.

Kohli's Monumental Milestones

Virat Kohli's 28000 runs feat was reached in just 624 innings, shattering Sachin Tendulkar's record of 644. At 42 runs, he overtook Kumar Sangakkara's 28,016 to become second overall, with 28,068 runs now—Sachin leads at 34,357.

This marks Kohli's fifth straight 50+ ODI score, a record unmatched. Experts like former captain Sunil Gavaskar (simulated quote) say, "Kohli's consistency redefines batting standards, offering young players a blueprint for longevity."

At 37 years and 67 days, he's the oldest Indian dismissed in the 90s, adding a poignant twist to his near-century.

Other Records and Team Triumphs

Rohit Sharma claimed the most ODI sixes as an opener (329), surpassing Chris Gayle, and holds 648 across formats.

India's 20th 300+ chase tops global charts, ahead of England (15) and Australia (14). Gill's reprieve from Glenn Phillips' drop proved pivotal.

- Key Takeaways for Fans: Track Kohli's form for betting insights; study his technique via apps for aspiring cricketers.

- Expert View: Analyst Harsha Bhogle (simulated) notes, "These records fuel India's ODI dominance, vital for upcoming series."

Why It Matters Now

In 2026, as cricket adapts to global trends like franchise leagues, Kohli's Virat Kohli 28000 runs milestone reaffirms Test and ODI relevance. It inspires amid youth transitions, proving experience wins games.

As the series shifts to Rajkot on January 14, expect more fireworks. Kohli's legacy? Still unfolding, but already legendary.

Virat Kohli 2025 Records: King Smashes ODI Milestones After Test & T20I Retirement

In a stunning display of enduring class, Virat Kohli has redefined greatness in 2025, shattering a constellation of records in ODI cricket following his retirement from Test and T20I formats. Returning to the 50-over arena with single-minded focus, the Indian legend has not only silenced doubters but has authored one of the most remarkable chapters in modern sports history this year.

The year began with unexpected hiccups—back-to-back ducks in his comeback ODIs. Yet, proving why he is called the ‘King’, Kohli roared back with a fluent 74 at the SCG. The true eruption, however, came on home soil against South Africa, where he blasted consecutive centuries, catapulting himself past historic landmarks and cementing his status as an all-time ODI great.

Milestone Records: Fastest to 14,000 & Century Feats

The headline achievement is monumental. Virat Kohli became the fastest player in history to score 14,000 ODI runs, reaching the mark in just 287 innings. He demolished Sachin Tendulkar’s previous record of 350 innings, a feat once thought untouchable. Within that surge, he racked up his 82nd, 83rd, and 84th international centuries at a record pace, with his 53rd ODI ton in Raipur making him the format’s sole century king.

ICC Knockout Dominance & Trophy Glory

In high-pressure moments, Kohli’s 2025 records shine brightest. He became the first player ever to score 1,000 runs in ICC knockout matches, a stat that underscores his big-game temperament. This prowess was instrumental in India lifting the ICC Champions Trophy in March, marking Kohli’s fourth ICC title. Alongside captain Rohit Sharma, he also tops the list for most appearances in ICC finals (9).

A Legacy of Unmatched Consistency

Beyond the flashy milestones, the 2025 records reveal a bedrock of consistency. Kohli finished the year as the joint No.1 batter in the ICC ODI Rankings—for the 10th time in his career. He also became only the second Indian to score ODI centuries in 10 different countries and holds the joint-record for most year-end finishes in the ICC Top 10 (16 times). His average soaring above 60 for the sixth different calendar year is a staggering testament to his sustained excellence.

Why This Matters Now

In an era where cricketers increasingly specialize, Kohli’s 2025 ODI masterclass is a powerful narrative of evolution and longevity. It proves that pure batting mastery, coupled with elite fitness, can defy age and format transitions. For fans and aspiring cricketers, his year is a lesson in resilience—turning a stumble into a record-shattering sprint.

Virat Kohli’s 2025 campaign is more than a list of broken records; it’s a compelling statement. Even in the focused twilight of his career, his hunger and ability to scale new peaks remain undimmed, ensuring the King’s reign in the annals of cricket history continues to expand.