India have been handed a major setback after Virat Kohli was ruled out of the IND vs AFG ODI series with injury. Kohli is India's star batter and his absence will be felt during the three-match series. India are expected to name a replacement and have a plethora of options to choose from, including Rajat Patidar and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

India have been handed a major setback after Virat Kohli was ruled out of the IND vs AFG ODI series with injury. Kohli is India's star batter and his absence will be felt during the three-match series. India are expected to name a replacement and have a plethora of options to choose from, including Rajat Patidar and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Ruturaj Gaikwad favourite

Among the contenders, Ruturaj Gaikwad appears to be the strongest candidate. While the Maharashtra star had a lukewarm IPL with the Chennai Super Kings, he scored a century at No.4 in his last ODI appearance. Gaikwad in fact built a strong partnership with Virat Kohli on that instance. The CSK captain's ability to anchor an innings and bat in multiple positions makes him a natural fit for India's ODI plans.

What other options?