The Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to announce Team India’s squad next week for the upcoming bilateral series against Afghanistan national cricket team. The tour will include a one-off Test match followed by a three-match ODI series after the conclusion of IPL 2026.

According to reports, the Indian squad announcement is likely to take place on May 19, with selectors expected to introduce several fresh faces, especially in the Test setup.

Afghanistan Tour of India to Begin After IPL 2026

Afghanistan’s tour of India is scheduled to begin with a one-off Test match at Mullanpur in Chandigarh.

Following the Test, the ODI series will be played on:

• June 14
• June 17
• June 20

The series is being viewed as an important preparation phase for India ahead of upcoming international assignments and ODI tournaments.

Jasprit Bumrah May Be Rested

Reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah could be rested for the one-off Test match as part of workload management plans.

The Indian pace spearhead has been handling a heavy international and IPL schedule, and selectors may choose to manage his fitness carefully ahead of bigger international events.

Young Players Could Get Opportunities

Several emerging players are reportedly under consideration for the Test squad.

Among the names being discussed are:

• Gurnoor Brar
• Aaqib Nabi

The selectors are believed to be focusing on strengthening India’s bench strength by testing young performers in international conditions.

Senior Batters Expected to Feature

India’s batting lineup is likely to include:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• KL Rahul
• Shubman Gill

Gill is expected to continue leading the side, while the team management may use the series to finalize combinations for future ODI and Test assignments.

Ishan Kishan Likely to Return to ODI Team

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the squad announcement is the expected ODI comeback of Ishan Kishan.

Reports indicate that Kishan’s strong performances in:

• IPL 2026
• Recent T20 tournaments
• Previous ODI appearances

have significantly improved his chances of returning to India’s ODI squad.

Playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad this season, Ishan Kishan has reportedly scored more than 400 runs in IPL 2026 and has impressed with his aggressive batting approach.

Strong ODI Record Strengthens Kishan’s Case

Ishan Kishan already holds an impressive ODI record for India.

His ODI statistics reportedly include:

• More than 900 ODI runs
• Batting average above 42
• A historic ODI double century

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His ability to score quickly at the top order and maintain attacking intent is believed to have strengthened his comeback case.

Rishabh Pant’s ODI Spot Under Pressure

The report further suggests that Kishan’s return could place Rishabh Pant under pressure in the ODI format.

Pant has reportedly struggled for consistency during IPL 2026, scoring around 251 runs in 11 innings.

Selectors are believed to be evaluating current form closely while finalizing the ODI squad.

Jadeja vs Axar Debate Continues

Another major selection discussion reportedly revolves around:

• Ravindra Jadeja
• Axar Patel

According to reports, selectors are concerned about Jadeja’s batting approach in the death overs, particularly his strike rotation and finishing ability in ODI cricket.

As a result, Axar Patel is emerging as a strong contender for the Afghanistan ODI series.

Selectors reportedly value Axar’s:

• Batting flexibility
• Faster scoring ability
• Left-arm spin option
• Improved all-round contributions

Hardik Pandya’s Availability Still Uncertain

The availability of Hardik Pandya remains another key question ahead of the series.

Hardik has reportedly been dealing with fitness concerns recently, and the management may take a cautious approach regarding his participation.

Important Series for Team Combination Testing

The Afghanistan series could become an important opportunity for India to:

• Test young players
• Experiment with ODI combinations
• Manage workload of senior stars
• Finalize backup options across departments