IND vs AFG Dream11 Team Prediction First ODI 2026: Best Fantasy Team, Pitch Report & Playing XI
IND vs AFG Dream11 Team Prediction First ODI 2026 Overview
India and Afghanistan begin their three-match ODI series at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on June 13, 2026. India enter the contest as favorites due to their superior batting depth and home advantage. However, Afghanistan possess several match-winners in Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mohammad Nabi who can turn the game around.
For Dream11 fantasy players, Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, KL Rahul, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Azmatullah Omarzai are among the safest picks. The absence of Hardik Pandya, who has been ruled out of the entire ODI series due to a quadriceps strain, creates opportunities for players like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar to play bigger roles.
Match Details
| Match | India vs Afghanistan, 1st ODI |
|---|---|
| Series | Afghanistan Tour of India 2026 |
| Date | 13 June 2026 |
| Venue | Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala |
| Time | 1:30 PM Local Time |
| Format | ODI |
India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Preview
After a packed cricket calendar, India switch their focus to ODI cricket as they host Afghanistan in a three-match series. The opening encounter in Dharamsala promises an exciting battle between India’s powerful batting lineup and Afghanistan’s world-class spin attack.
India will be led by Shubman Gill, while experienced wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul is expected to play a crucial role in the middle order. The hosts have a balanced squad featuring aggressive batters, quality all-rounders, and a varied bowling attack.
Afghanistan, meanwhile, continue to establish themselves as one of the most dangerous emerging teams in world cricket. Their spin trio led by Rashid Khan remains their biggest weapon, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran provide stability at the top.
The high-altitude conditions of Dharamsala often make matches entertaining, with fast bowlers receiving assistance early before batters settle in.
Hardik Pandya Injury Update
India have suffered a significant setback ahead of the series.
Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the entire three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to a fresh quadriceps strain.
The star all-rounder is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence and is expected to remain unavailable for approximately three weeks.
Matches Hardik Will Miss
| Match | Date |
|---|---|
| 1st ODI | June 13, Dharamsala |
| 2nd ODI | June 17, Lucknow |
| 3rd ODI | June 20, Chennai |
His absence weakens India’s balance and increases the responsibility on players like Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, and Harsh Dubey.
Venue Report: HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is among the most picturesque cricket venues in the world.
Pitch Characteristics
- Offers movement for pacers early on.
- Batters can score freely once settled.
- Outfield remains quick.
- Seamers enjoy bounce and carry.
- Spinners become effective during middle overs.
Average ODI Statistics
| Record | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Average First Innings Score | 275-300 |
| Highest ODI Total | 350+ |
| Pace Assistance | High Initially |
| Spin Assistance | Moderate |
Weather Report
Weather conditions are expected to remain pleasant with minimal chances of rain. Fast bowlers may receive assistance due to cool mountain conditions.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches | India Won | Afghanistan Won |
|---|---|---|
| ODI Matches | 5 | 0 |
India have dominated Afghanistan in ODI cricket so far. Afghanistan are still searching for their first ODI victory over India.
India Probable Playing XI
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Ishan Kishan
- Rohit Sharma
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Shreyas Iyer
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
- Prasidh Krishna
- Harsh Dubey
Afghanistan Probable Playing XI
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Sediqullah Atal
- Rahmat Shah
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Nabi
- Ikram Alikhil (WK)
- Rashid Khan
- Nangeyalia Kharoti
- Bilal Sami
- Fareed Ahmad Malik
Top Fantasy Picks for IND vs AFG Dream11
Wicketkeepers
| Player | Why Pick? |
|---|---|
| KL Rahul | Consistent ODI performer |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Aggressive opener |
Batters
| Player | Why Pick? |
|---|---|
| Shubman Gill | India’s most reliable ODI batter |
| Rohit Sharma | Massive scoring potential |
| Shreyas Iyer | Strong against spin |
| Ibrahim Zadran | Afghanistan’s dependable top-order batter |
All-Rounders
| Player | Why Pick? |
|---|---|
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Contributes with bat and ball |
| Washington Sundar | Useful in both departments |
| Mohammad Nabi | Experienced fantasy performer |
| Nitish Kumar Reddy | Opportunity due to Hardik’s absence |
Bowlers
| Player | Why Pick? |
|---|---|
| Rashid Khan | Genuine wicket-taking threat |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Dangerous against Afghanistan’s middle order |
| Arshdeep Singh | New-ball specialist |
| Prasidh Krishna | Extra bounce in Dharamsala |
Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
Safe Choices
Captain
- Shubman Gill
- Rashid Khan
Vice-Captain
- KL Rahul
- Azmatullah Omarzai
Grand League Captain Picks
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Rohit Sharma
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
IND vs AFG Dream11 Team Prediction First ODI 2026
Small League Team
Wicketkeepers:
- KL Rahul
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Batters:
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Rohit Sharma
- Shreyas Iyer
- Ibrahim Zadran
All-Rounders:
- Azmatullah Omarzai (VC)
- Washington Sundar
Bowlers:
- Rashid Khan
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
Grand League Team
Wicketkeepers:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Batters:
- Shubman Gill
- Rohit Sharma
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Shreyas Iyer
All-Rounders:
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Mohammad Nabi
Bowlers:
- Rashid Khan (C)
- Kuldeep Yadav (VC)
- Prasidh Krishna
Key Players to Watch
Shubman Gill
India’s captain is among the best ODI batters in the world. His ability to play long innings makes him a must-have fantasy pick.
Rashid Khan
Afghanistan’s superstar remains one of the most impactful players in world cricket. His four-over spells often decide matches.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Known for explosive starts, Gurbaz can quickly earn valuable fantasy points.
Azmatullah Omarzai
A genuine all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball, making him a high-value Dream11 option.
Kuldeep Yadav
The wrist spinner has consistently troubled opposition batters in ODI cricket.
Match Prediction
India appear stronger on paper despite missing Hardik Pandya. Their batting lineup has enough experience and depth to post a challenging total. Afghanistan’s hopes will largely depend on Rashid Khan’s magic and the top-order performance of Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran.
If India handle Afghanistan’s spin attack effectively, they should start the series with a victory.
Predicted Winner: India
Winning Probability
| Team | Chance |
|---|---|
| India | 72% |
| Afghanistan | 28% |
FAQs
Who is the best captain choice for IND vs AFG Dream11 Team Prediction First ODI 2026?
Shubman Gill is the safest captaincy option due to his excellent ODI form and ability to score big runs.
Is Hardik Pandya playing in the 1st ODI against Afghanistan?
No. Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the entire ODI series due to a quadriceps strain.
Which bowler is the best fantasy pick?
Rashid Khan remains the best bowling option due to his wicket-taking ability and all-round contributions.
What is the pitch report for Dharamsala?
The pitch generally assists fast bowlers early before becoming favorable for batting. Spinners also find assistance during the middle overs.
Who is likely to win IND vs AFG 1st ODI?
India start as favorites because of their stronger batting lineup, home conditions, and superior overall record against Afghanistan.
