Indian cricket has been dealt a significant setback as reports suggest that Virat Kohli could be sidelined for up to six weeks after suffering a hamstring injury during the IPL 2026 final. The veteran batter, who played a match-winning knock for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the title clash, reportedly sustained the injury while batting and continued despite visible discomfort on the field.
According to multiple reports, medical scans have revealed a hamstring tendon tear, forcing Kohli out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The injury has raised concerns not only for the immediate series but also for India's preparations ahead of the crucial ODI tour of England scheduled to begin in July.
Kohli was seen receiving treatment from the physio during the IPL 2026 final but remarkably carried on to score an unbeaten 75, helping RCB secure their second consecutive IPL title. His determination and commitment earned praise from fans and experts alike, but the injury appears to have come at a heavy cost. Reports indicate that hamstring tendon injuries can require several weeks of rehabilitation depending on the severity of the damage.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release a detailed medical bulletin regarding the exact recovery timeline, reports suggest that Kohli could miss up to six weeks of cricket. Such a recovery period would make his availability for the England ODI series highly uncertain. India are scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against England beginning in mid-July, and selectors are expected to closely monitor Kohli's rehabilitation progress before taking a final call.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate given Kohli's outstanding form in recent months. The 37-year-old enjoyed another stellar IPL campaign, finishing among the tournament's leading run-scorers and playing a decisive role in RCB's successful title defense. His experience and consistency remain invaluable to India's ODI setup, especially after his retirement from Test and T20I cricket.
India's selection committee now faces the challenge of identifying suitable alternatives should Kohli remain unavailable. Young batters such as Ruturaj Gaikwad and other emerging stars could get opportunities to stake their claim in the middle order during the Afghanistan series.
For Indian fans, the primary concern remains Kohli's fitness ahead of the England tour. Given his reputation for maintaining elite fitness standards throughout his career, there is optimism that he could recover faster than expected. However, team management is unlikely to take any risks with one of the country's most important ODI players.
The coming weeks will be crucial as Kohli undergoes rehabilitation and fitness assessments. Until an official update arrives, his participation in the England ODI series remains uncertain, leaving Indian cricket supporters anxiously awaiting positive news regarding the superstar batter's recovery.