IND vs AFG: Surprise Picks? Shami, Sanju Likely In

India national cricket team are set to begin their one off Test match against the Afghanistan national cricket team from June 6 to 10 in New Chandigarh. The match will be played at the Mullanpur stadium and is already generating strong interest among cricket fans.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to meet on May 19 to finalise the squads. The committee will select players for both the Test match and the upcoming three match ODI series against Afghanistan.

Even though the Test is outside the current World Test Championship cycle, reports suggest India will still field a strong batting lineup. However, the primary focus is expected to remain on testing the bowling department, especially the fast bowling combination for future assignments.

With Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested and Mohammed Siraj possibly being preserved for the ODI series, selectors may experiment with new pace options during the Test. This could provide opportunities for several emerging domestic performers.

Prasidh Krishna is expected to lead the pace attack in the absence of senior bowlers. All rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is also likely to secure a place in the squad because of his recent performances and all round abilities.

Injuries to Harshit Rana and Akash Deep have reportedly opened the door for uncapped fast bowlers. Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar and Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi are among the players being closely discussed by selectors after impressive domestic performances.

There is also a strong possibility of Mohammed Shami making his return to the Test side. Shami has not played a Test match since the 2023 World Test Championship Final, but his recent form in domestic cricket and IPL 2026 has reportedly impressed the selectors.

In the spin department, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar are expected to retain their spots in the squad. Their experience and versatility continue to make them important options for the team management.

The ODI series against Afghanistan will also carry major importance for India’s preparations toward the 2027 ODI World Cup. Reports suggest Sanju Samson could return to the ODI setup, while Rishabh Pant may miss out as the management continues planning for the future combination.