Why is Kuldeep Yadav Not Playing Today in IND vs AFG 1st ODI?

The ODI leg of the Afghanistan tour of India has begun with the IND vs AFG 1st ODI at the HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala. The match got affected by the rain for almost 4 hours, which made it to 25-overs each. The toss between the two teams was won by the Indian cricket team, where skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bowl first, considering the overcast conditions and pitch conditions at the most beautiful cricket stadium in the world.

However, when Gill was asked about the team combinations, he announced that Yashasvi Jaiswal, Kuldeep Yadav, and Prince Yadav are missing from the Playing 11. This created a question among fans as to why Kuldeep is not in the playing 11; let's find out the reason, as well as Kuldeep Yadav replacement for this match.

Why is Kuldeep Yadav Not Playing Today?

Kuldeep Yadav, one of the best bowlers in India, is missing out from the Indian side during the IND vs AFG 1st test due to team combinations and the pitch conditions that favour the pace-heavy attack in the side. India has been playing with 3 seamers, 1 pace bowling all-rounder, and 2 finger spinners, which made no room for Kuldeep Yadav.

However, Harsh Dubey, who is making his debut in the ODI format, is Kuldeep Yadav replacement in this match, as management also wants to experiment with as many options as possible ahead of the ICC World Cup 2027.

Two New Debutants For India in ODIs

Harsh Dubey and Gurnoor Brar made their ODI debut for India against Afghanistan in a rain-shortened match in Dharamshala. Tall pacer Gurnoor Brar got his cap from captain Shubman Gill, while spinner Harsh Dubey received his from KL Rahul. Both players impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and their strong domestic form helped them earn this big opportunity, bringing fresh energy to India’s bowling attack. Both these players could be in contention for the ICC World Cup 2027, as the Indian management wants all departments to be sorted before heading to the biggest stage of cricket.