Former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar has shared his predicted playing XI for the first ODI against Afghanistan, backing young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal to take up the crucial No. 3 position in India’s batting order. The opening ODI of the three-match series is set to be played in Dharamshala on June 13, and Nayar believes the match presents an ideal opportunity for Jaiswal to cement his place in India’s 50-over setup.

Jaiswal was drafted into the squad after Virat Kohli was ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026 final while representing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Kohli’s absence has opened the door for another batter to step into a key middle-order role, and Nayar feels Jaiswal is the right candidate.

Speaking on Star Sports, Abhishek Nayar suggested that India should continue with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as openers, while promoting Jaiswal to No. 3. He believes the left-hander’s aggressive approach and ability to handle pressure make him a strong option in the position. “Open with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. Yashasvi Jaiswal will play at No. 3, Shreyas Iyer at No. 4, KL Rahul at No. 5, Hardik Pandya at No. 6, Washington Sundar at No. 7, and Harsh Dubey at No. 8,” Nayar said.

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Jaiswal’s omission from the original squad had generated considerable discussion among fans and experts. The youngster had already showcased his ODI credentials last year, scoring a century against South Africa after stepping in as a replacement for an injured Gill.

Abhishek Nayar also backed all-rounder Harsh Dubey to feature in the playing XI. According to him, Dubey’s left-arm spin and lower-order batting ability could provide the balance India need, especially in conditions that may assist slower bowlers. “I feel Harsh Dubey will play because you will need a left-arm spinner. He is an all-rounder. He played for SRH this year,” Nayar explained.

The former India all-rounder also raised concerns about Prasidh Krishna’s workload management. Having battled multiple injuries, including stress fractures, Prasidh may need careful handling despite being one of India’s leading pace options. Nayar suggested that India should consider giving either Gurnoor Brar or Prince Yadav an opportunity in the series opener. Both pacers have impressed in domestic cricket, and he believes fresh faces deserve a chance at the international level.

“So, if you have to give a chance, see Gurnoor Brar because he is a good bowler. He is tall and was with this Test team as well. Prince Yadav has obviously performed very well,” Abhishek Nayar said.

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With Shubman Gill leading the ODI side, India will be eager to begin the Afghanistan series on a winning note after their recent home ODI series defeat against New Zealand. Team selection will be closely watched, particularly with several young players pushing for long-term opportunities in the national setup.

Abhishek Nayar’s India playing 11 for IND vs AFG 2026 1st ODI: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Kuldeep Yadav/extra seamer