Predicted XI of India vs Afghanistan in one-off Test

India are set to take on Afghanistan in a one-off Test match beginning on June 6 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. The match will mark India’s return to red-ball cricket after a busy white-ball season, with several players transitioning from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to the demands of Test cricket. While a few experienced names will form the core of the side, the contest could also provide opportunities for emerging talents to make a mark on the international stage.

Here is the predicted XI of India vs Afghanistan:

Top Order: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal

India are expected to continue with the dependable opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rahul brings vast experience to the side and has been one of India’s most reliable batters in the longest format. In 67 Test matches, he has scored 4,053 runs and will be eager to carry his recent form into the red-ball arena. The left-handed opener has amassed 2,511 runs in just 28 matches at an average close to 50.

At No. 3, Devdutt Padikkal is expected to get the nod. The elegant left-hander has already represented India in two Test matches and boasts an impressive First-Class record. His strong domestic performances make him a suitable candidate to strengthen India’s top order.

Middle Order: Shubman Gill (Ct), Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey

Captain Shubman Gill is likely to occupy the crucial No. 4 position. One of the most technically gifted batters in the squad, Gill has scored 2,843 runs in 40 Test matches at an average of 43.07. At No. 5, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will provide the aggressive edge. Pant has accumulated 3,476 runs in 49 Tests at an average of 42.91 and remains one of the most impactful batters in world cricket.

Dhruv Jurel is expected to continue his development in Test cricket at No. 6. The young batter has shown maturity and temperament, scoring 459 runs in nine matches so far. Washington Sundar adds balance to the side as a spin-bowling all-rounder. With 885 runs and 36 wickets in 17 Tests, Sundar’s contributions with both bat and ball make him a valuable asset. One of the most exciting selections could be Harsh Dubey. The young left-arm spinning all-rounder is expected to make his Test debut after an outstanding domestic season.

Bowlers: Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

In the abence of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj is expected to spearhead the pace attack. Siraj has taken 139 wickets in 45 Test matches and has consistently delivered breakthroughs in challenging situations. Prasidh Krishna is likely to partner Siraj with the new ball. The tall fast bowler has impressed with his bounce and pace, claiming 22 wickets in just six Test matches.

Kuldeep Yadav is expected to lead the spin department. The left-arm wrist-spinner has been highly effective in Test cricket, taking 76 wickets in 17 matches. His ability to extract turns and deceive batters could prove crucial against Afghanistan’s batting lineup.

Predicted India XI

KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill (Ct), Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

FAQs

When will the India vs Afghanistan one-off Test start?

The one-off Test between India and Afghanistan is scheduled to begin on June 6, 2026.

Where will the India vs Afghanistan one-off Test be played?

The match will be played at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.

Which Indian players could be key in the one-off Test?

With the bat, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Devdutt Padikkal are expected to play important roles. With the ball, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, and Harsh Dubey could be the players to watch.