IND vs AFG Match Prediction : 1st ODI, Afghanistan tour of India 2026

India and Afghanistan will kick off a three-match ODI series, with the first game setting the tone for a tour where both sides are eyeing crucial preparation ahead of upcoming ICC events. India will use this series to test a new core of white-ball players, while Afghanistan view it as an opportunity to challenge a top side away from home and build belief.

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India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record

India have traditionally dominated Afghanistan in ODIs, winning all their previous completed encounters in global events and bilateral meetings. Afghanistan have run India close on a few occasions but are still searching for a breakthrough win in this format.

India vs Afghanistan Live-streaming and Broadcast

You can find live odds, updated tips after every day's play, and more information about this match at ocbsports.com.

IND vs AFG Team Previews

India

India come into this ODI series with a refreshed squad, blending experienced names with several players pushing for long-term roles in the 50-over setup . Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Prince Yadav are among those under the spotlight, as the selectors look to firm up options ahead of future ICC tournaments .

Rohit Sharma has eased back into training and looked increasingly assured as he faced extended spells in the nets, while Ishan Kishan impressed with his aggressive strokeplay, consistently taking on both spin and pace during practice. With KL Rahul likely to keep wickets and control the middle order, Kishan is in contention for a top-three role in Kohli’s absence.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, who has already notched up his first ODI fifty and increased his bowling workload over the summer, is set to be India’s main seam-bowling allrounder and offers valuable balance at No. 6 or 7.

Harsh Dubey is another allround option in the squad and had solid preparation with both bat and ball in the lead-up, giving India additional flexibility if they want a left-arm spin angle.

India Expected Playing 11

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (C & WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Prince Yadav, Harsh Dubey, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

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Afghanistan

Afghanistan have added fast bowler Mohammad Saleem to the ODI squad after his impressive returns in the Test series, where he showcased pace and extra bounce that troubled Indian batters. He joins a seam attack that already features Azmatullah Omarzai and will be key in trying to make early inroads with the new ball.

At the top, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran will once again be crucial, with Zadran arriving from home having scored fifties in two recent List A outings. During practice, Saleem hurried Gurbaz with his pace, while Zadran looked more composed, suggesting Afghanistan’s opening pair will need to handle India’s pace and movement carefully.

The middle order will revolve around experienced names, supported by a spin unit that traditionally forms the backbone of Afghanistan’s limited-overs strategy. If their spinners can apply pressure in the middle overs and Saleem provides penetration up front, Afghanistan can stay competitive deep into the contest.

Afghanistan Expected Playing 11

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mohammad Saleem.

IND vs AFG Toss Prediction

The team winning the toss is likely to opt to bowl first. Early movement for the seamers combined with the possibility of dew later in the evening generally makes chasing the preferred option in Indian white-ball conditions.

Pitch Report and Weather Conditions

The surface for this ODI is expected to be good for batting once batters are set, offering true bounce and value for shots. New-ball bowlers should find some assistance early on, especially if there is a bit of grass or moisture, but conditions should ease out as the match progresses. Weather conditions are likely to be warm with the possibility of some evening humidity, which can bring swing into play under lights.

IND vs AFG : Who Will Win?

We are backing India to win this match. They have a deeper, more versatile batting lineup and several players eager to cement their places, which usually translates to high intensity and focus . Afghanistan have the tools to challenge, particularly with their openers and spin attack, but India’s balance across departments and home advantage should see them through.

Bet on India to win.