India Predicted Squad vs Afghanistan: Auqib Nabi Eyed for Test Return

The Shift to International Cricket

With the IPL 2026 reaching its thrilling conclusion on May 31, the cricketing world turns its gaze toward the international calendar. Team India’s immediate focus is a home series against Afghanistan, starting with a pivotal one-off Test match. Following a mixed bag of results in the previous year—including a drawn series against England and a challenging home series against South Africa—the Indian team is looking to regain its dominance in the red-ball format.

Strategic Changes in the Batting Lineup

The batting department presents a blend of stability and fresh opportunities. Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul remain the primary choices to open the innings, a combination that has proven resilient in high-pressure conditions throughout tours in Australia and England. With the number three spot being a subject of ongoing discussion, reports suggest that Devdutt Padikkal is set to take the mantle against Afghanistan. His stellar form in the Ranji Trophy suggests he is ready to translate domestic success to the international stage.

Shubman Gill, assuming the captaincy, will serve as the anchor of the middle order. He is expected to lead from the front, serving as the central figure around whom the innings will be built. The wicket-keeping duties are expected to be split between the dynamic Rishabh Pant and the reliable Dhruv Jurel, with Pant likely retaining his place in the starting XI for his explosive batting ability.

All-Rounders: The Engine Room

The selection of all-rounders highlights India’s intent to maintain depth in both bowling and batting. Ravindra Jadeja’s presence is non-negotiable, particularly on home soil where his craft remains a menace to visiting batters. Washington Sundar, who earned the trust of head coach Gautam Gambhir during the England tour, is set to continue his development in the side.

A significant area of focus is the hunt for a pace-bowling all-rounder, and Nitish Kumar Reddy appears to be the answer the selectors have been looking for. Furthermore, the inclusion of Rajasthan’s Manav Suthar could provide the team with a necessary boost, potentially marking his maiden call-up to the national Test squad.

Bowling Dynamics and the Auqib Nabi Factor

Perhaps the most significant talking point is the management of Jasprit Bumrah. Given the importance of preserving his longevity, it is highly probable that the team management will opt to rest him for this one-off fixture. In his absence, the spotlight turns to the Jammu and Kashmir sensation, Auqib Nabi. Fresh off a Ranji Trophy-winning campaign, Nabi’s inclusion would signal a bold step toward introducing fresh fast-bowling talent into the Test arena.

Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack, while the selectors are expected to provide Prasidh Krishna another opportunity to prove his mettle, despite his inconsistent run in the format. Akash Deep remains a vital backup option if fitness permits. Rounding out the bowling options, Kuldeep Yadav’s wrist spin is expected to be a major tactical weapon, as his variations often create confusion for visiting international teams.

Predicted India Squad for the One-Off Test

Based on current form, injury reports, and tactical requirements, the projected squad for the one-off Test against Afghanistan is as follows:

• Batters: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk)
• All-rounders: Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Reddy, Manav Suthar
• Bowlers: Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Auqib Nabi, Kuldeep Yadav

This series acts as a crucial litmus test for the Indian team as they look to iron out inconsistencies and prepare for the long international season ahead. Whether the selectors opt for the youthful energy of Auqib Nabi or stick to established backup options, the strategy remains clear: build a squad capable of performing consistently under the pressures of Test cricket.