India’s ODI preparations for the 2027 World Cup got underway with the first match of a three-game series against Afghanistan in Dharamsala. The contest was expected to provide valuable game time for both teams, but rain played a major role before the action could begin. Persistent showers and gloomy weather conditions created uncertainty around the start of the match, leaving players and fans waiting for a break in the weather.
Rain threatens the opening ODI
Weather forecasts had predicted thunderstorms and heavy rain in Dharamsala, and those concerns proved accurate as wet conditions delayed proceedings. The toss could not take place on time, with covers remaining firmly on the field. Officials continued to monitor the weather while both teams waited for an opportunity to get the match underway.
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Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra, speaking on air, said the ground staff would require approximately one hour to make the field match-ready once the rain stops. As a result, for a 20-over-per-side contest to be possible, the rain must cease by 5:32 PM, allowing enough time to prepare the ground and begin play.
🚨 Breaking news 🚨
— Satya⁸ (@duary_satyajit) June 13, 2026
The match between india and Afghanistan called off due to heavy rain 🌧️
Hope 2nd ODI will be playing without any rain effect pic.twitter.com/UJgWkxvd6m
The possibility of a shortened game was disappointing for India, which views the Afghanistan series as an important step in its build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup. Every match offers a chance to test combinations and assess players as the team begins planning for the next global tournament.
Focus on India’s new ODI chapter
The series also marks the start of a new ODI phase for India under captain Shubman Gill. Senior batter Rohit Sharma returned to the format, bringing experience to a squad that features a blend of established stars and emerging talent. With Virat Kohli unavailable, other batters have an opportunity to make an impact and strengthen their positions in the side.
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Afghanistan entered the series eager to challenge one of the strongest teams in world cricket. Led by Rashid Khan and backed by a talented group of players, the visitors will look to continue their rise in international cricket and test themselves against high-quality opposition.
While the weather dominated attention before the start of play, both teams remain focused on making the most of the series. The three ODIs are expected to provide valuable experience, help players settle into key roles, and offer a clearer picture of each side’s plans moving forward.
With conditions still uncertain in Dharamsala, fans will be hoping for clear skies and uninterrupted cricket as India and Afghanistan begin an important chapter in their ODI journeys.
