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Unrelenting rain prevented the toss from taking place ahead of the opening ODI between India and Afghanistan at Dharamshala’s HPCA Stadium on Saturday.
The BCCI informed fans about the delay through a post on social media.
Wet weather has affected the region throughout the week, with repeated spells of rain impacting preparations for the series opener. Similar conditions were also recorded a day before the match.
Weather forecasts suggest that showers may persist until late afternoon before easing later in the day.
Even if the rain stops, match officials will need to assess the condition of the playing surface and outfield before confirming a start time.
The venue’s drainage facilities will be critical in helping restore the ground for play.
The ODI series provides India with another opportunity to fine-tune combinations ahead of the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup. The tournament will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Led by Shubman Gill, the Indian side enters the contest without two experienced campaigners. Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya remain unavailable due to injury concerns.
Rohit Sharma has returned to full fitness after clearing medical assessments at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The experienced batter will likely open the innings alongside captain Gill.
India’s think tank may also use the series to evaluate options for the number three position. KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ishan Kishan remain strong contenders for the role.
Dharamshala’s pitch has historically provided assistance to pace bowlers during the early stages of an innings. Additional moisture from the rain could make batting even more challenging.
The toss could become a major factor, especially if weather interruptions result in a shortened contest.
India has enjoyed considerable success against Afghanistan in ODI cricket, winning all three completed matches between the two teams. Their only other ODI meeting ended in a tie during the 2018 Asia Cup.
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