India vs Afghanistan: Who Replaces Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya? Gambhir's New ODI Cycle Begins

India's road to the 2027 ODI World Cup begins in Dharamsala on Saturday, but the focus ahead of the series opener against Afghanistan has shifted from the opposition to the opportunities created by the absence of two of the team's biggest stars.

With Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya ruled out due to injuries, head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill have some crucial decisions to make as they begin shaping India's plans for the next 50-over World Cup.

The biggest question revolves around the No. 3 position - a spot Kohli made his own over the years. According to bowling coach Morne Morkel, the team management intends to use the series to assess multiple options.

"As for the No. 3 slot, that's something we'll explore during this series. Whether it's Ishan, KL or Yashasvi, it's a nice opportunity," Morkel told reporters ahead of the first ODI.

Battle for Virat Kohli No. 3 spot

Replacing Kohli is no easy task, and India appear ready to experiment.

Ishan Kishan, who was initially selected as a backup opener and wicketkeeper, has emerged as a strong contender. The team management has long been interested in having a left-hander in the top three, and Kohli's absence may finally provide that opportunity.

Yashasvi Jaiswal is another option under consideration, though signs from training suggest Kishan could have the edge. The left-hander spent extra time working with fielding coach T Dilip following his batting session, indicating he may also be preparing for wicketkeeping duties.

KL Rahul, meanwhile, remains the most experienced batter in the middle order. Having established himself at No. 6 and kept wickets regularly in ODIs over the past three years, Rahul could also be asked to move up the order if the management opts for greater experience at No. 3.

Nitish Kumar Reddy gets his chance

Hardik Pandya's injury has accelerated India's search for all-round options ahead of the next World Cup, and Nitish Kumar Reddy appears set to be one of the biggest beneficiaries.

Morkel was full of praise for the youngster, suggesting the team sees him as a genuine option in Hardik's role.

"You always look at your options, whether it's batting, bowling or all-rounders. Unfortunately, Hardik is missing this series after picking up quite a niggle just before joining camp. But again, it's another opportunity for Nitish Kumar Reddy," Morkel said.

The South African coach highlighted the progress Reddy has made over the last few years and backed him to make an impact if selected.

"He's been playing beautifully over the last couple of years and has done a lot of work on his game. It's an opportunity for players in that role to put their hands up and maybe make life difficult for the selectors."

Morkel also revealed that India have worked extensively on improving Reddy's bowling action and balance at the crease.

"Nitish did that. From a technical point of view, it was about getting him into a better position, creating more balance so that the energy flows down the wicket. We believe there's improvement in both departments of his game."

New-look pace attack gets its opportunity

The Afghanistan series is not only about batting combinations. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj rested, India are also using the three-match series to assess their pace-bowling depth.

Morkel made it clear that developing backup options is a key part of India's long-term planning for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa.

"That's definitely part of our thinking and our vision: to give ourselves options for the World Cup in South Africa," he said.

The coach was particularly impressed by young pacers Prince and Gurnoor, praising their composure and work ethic during their time with the squad.

"It almost felt like they'd been part of the squad for five years. They were accurate and on the money," Morkel added.

While Kohli and Hardik's absence leaves a significant void in the Indian lineup, it has also created a rare opportunity for the next generation. With the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle officially underway, the Afghanistan series could provide the first glimpse of India's future.