The first ODI between India and Afghanistan at Dharamshala has been delayed by persistent rain, with the toss yet to take place as ground conditions remain wet at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. Covers have stayed firmly in place over the pitch and square, while the ground staff have also protected the run-up areas because the drizzle has continued without easing. Although the rain is not heavy, its steady nature has made an immediate start impossible and raised concerns about the possibility of a full match.
Weather forecasts for Dharamshala suggest a 60% to 70% chance of showers through the day, meaning further interruptions remain likely even if play eventually begins. The India Meteorological Department had already issued an orange alert for Himachal Pradesh for June 12, warning of thunderstorms, hail and gusty winds in parts of the state. A yellow alert remains in effect from June 13 through June 16, indicating the possibility of rain and lightning in scattered areas.
Hourly forecasts for Saturday show the highest rain probability in the early afternoon, with the chance of showers peaking around 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM before gradually decreasing later in the evening. Temperatures are expected to stay cool throughout the day, ranging from about 19°C to 23°C.
At present, there is no confirmed toss time for the match. The standard procedure will apply once the rain stops: the umpires will inspect the ground and then decide whether conditions are fit for the toss and a possible start. No official revised start time has been announced yet, leaving the opening ODI in a waiting game as weather continues to dominate the build-up.
The delay has created uncertainty around the fixture, especially with the forecast suggesting only a limited window for uninterrupted play. Any restart will depend entirely on how quickly the rain clears and whether the outfield, pitch and surrounding areas can be prepared in time for the umpires’ inspection.
For now, the situation remains fluid, with players, officials and fans waiting for a break in the weather before the match can get underway. The rain delay has also added tension to the series opener, making the toss and the eventual start time the key immediate questions for India vs Afghanistan at Dharamshala.
