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Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s Comeback Date Changed! BCCI Alters IND vs AFG Schedu

Devansh Cox · · 3 min read
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An Unexpected Shift in the Cricket Calendar

Cricket enthusiasts awaiting the return of legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the international stage must take note of a recent scheduling update. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced that the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s Comeback Date Changed! BCCI Alters IND vs AFG Schedu, ensuring that the highly anticipated bilateral series against Afghanistan aligns with other major cricketing events on the global calendar.

The three-match ODI series, which was originally set to begin on June 14, has undergone a slight adjustment. While the picturesque venue of Dharamsala remains the host for the opening encounter, the first ODI will now be played on June 13. This change is a direct result of the BCCI’s commitment to supporting women’s cricket on the world stage.

Prioritizing the Women’s T20 World Cup

The decision to move the match date stems from the scheduling of the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup. On June 14, the Indian women’s cricket team is slated to face their arch-rivals, Pakistan, in a high-voltage encounter in Birmingham. Recognizing the importance of this fixture and the immense fan interest it commands, the BCCI opted to shift the men’s ODI to avoid a direct overlap.

This proactive step reflects the board’s ongoing efforts to promote and elevate the profile of the women’s game. By ensuring that fans do not have to choose between cheering for the men’s team in Dharamsala and supporting the women’s team in Birmingham, the BCCI is fostering a more inclusive and celebrated environment for all Indian cricket followers.

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Details of the Updated Schedule

While the start date for the ODI series has been moved forward by one day, the rest of the IND vs AFG Schedule 2026 remains largely unchanged. The tour itself is an extensive one, featuring a multi-format structure designed to challenge the players across different conditions.

  • One-off Test Match: The action begins at New Chandigarh, with the match starting on June 6.
  • ODI Series: The three-match ODI series will now be contested between June 13 and June 20.

The series marks a historic moment as it represents the first-ever three-ODI bilateral series between India and Afghanistan. Fans have been eagerly waiting to see stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma lead the batting lineup, and this schedule tweak ensures that the excitement for their return remains undiminished.

What This Means for Fans

For those planning their trips to Dharamsala, the date change is the only major shift to be aware of. The venue, renowned for its stunning backdrop and excellent pitch conditions, is expected to provide a spectacular setting for these fixtures. The BCCI has confirmed that all other logistical aspects of the series remain intact, and preparations at the ground are proceeding as scheduled.

As the cricket world turns its attention toward the summer of 2026, the focus will undoubtedly be on how the Indian squad adapts to these changes. With the team looking to build momentum ahead of future ICC tournaments, these matches against Afghanistan serve as a crucial platform for both established stars and emerging talent.

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We will continue to provide updates as more information regarding the team selection and squad announcements becomes available. Stay tuned for further coverage as we approach the start of this exciting series in June.

Devansh Cox

Devansh Cox is the chief cricket writer for Dawn, Pakistan's leading English-language daily, where he covers the national team, the Pakistan Super League, and the socio-political undercurrents of the sport. With a family heritage tracing back to the British Raj and strong ties to the UK, Cox brings a unique cross-cultural lens to his reporting, often examining the experiences of South Asian cricketers in English county circuits. A Karachi native, he is known for his technical analysis of fast bowling and his deep access to team insiders. His work has been cited by the ICC and the BBC, and he is a regular guest on Test Match Special’s Pakistan coverage.

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