India national cricket team have officially announced their squads for the upcoming India vs Afghanistan one-off Test and three-match ODI series scheduled for June 2026. The selection decisions have already generated strong reactions among cricket experts and fans.
Speaking on JioHotstar, former Indian cricketers Mohammad Kaif and Suresh Raina shared their opinions about the team selection, KL Rahul’s appointment as vice-captain, and the new-look bowling attack for the Test side.
The much-awaited one-off Test between India and Afghanistan will be played from June 6 to June 10, starting at 9:30 AM IST.
Mohammad Kaif Supports Rishabh Pant as Test Vice-Captain
Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif strongly believes Rishabh Pant deserved to continue as the vice-captain of India’s Test side.
Loading ...Kaif pointed out that many fans are unfairly judging Pant based on his IPL performances instead of his contributions in red-ball cricket.
“There is no bigger match-winner for India in Tests, as a batter, than Rishabh Pant,” Kaif said during the discussion on JioHotstar.
He also questioned the exclusion of promising pacer Auqib Nabi from the squad and asked selectors to maintain consistency in selection policies regarding age and form.
Key Talking Points from Mohammad Kaif
| Topic | Opinion |
|---|---|
| Rishabh Pant | Deserved vice-captaincy |
| KL Rahul | Experienced but age debate continues |
| Auqib Nabi | Should have received opportunity |
| Selection Policy | Needs consistency |
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Suresh Raina Praises India’s New Bowling Attack
Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina expressed excitement about India’s revamped bowling lineup for the Test series.
Raina highlighted the performances of:
- Prasidh Krishna
- Mohammed Siraj
- Gurnoor Brar
- Manav Suthar
- Harsh Dubey
According to Raina, the selection committee has rewarded consistent domestic performances during the red-ball season.
He also suggested that captain Shubman Gill likely played a role in choosing bowlers suited to his tactical approach.
Why Gurnoor Brar Could Be India’s Surprise Weapon
One of the most talked-about selections is tall Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar.
Standing at 6’5”, Gurnoor brings:
- bounce
- pace
- different release angles
to India’s bowling attack.
Gurnoor Brar First-Class Record
| Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|
| 18 | 52 |
Raina believes his height and natural bounce can trouble Afghanistan’s batting lineup significantly during the Test match.
India Vs Afghanistan Series Schedule
One-Off Test Match
| Match | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| India vs Afghanistan Test | June 6–10, 2026 | 9:30 AM IST |
ODI Series
The three-match ODI series will follow the conclusion of the Test match.
Live Streaming and Telecast Details
Cricket fans can watch the India Vs Afghanistan series LIVE on:
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Can India’s Young Bowling Attack Deliver?
The India Vs Afghanistan Test series will also serve as an important opportunity for India’s next generation of bowlers to establish themselves in international cricket.
With experienced names like Mohammed Shami unavailable, selectors appear focused on building a younger pace attack around players who have impressed in domestic cricket and recent red-ball tournaments.
The inclusion of several young bowlers shows India’s long-term planning ahead of future overseas tours and ICC tournaments.
As anticipation builds for the series, fans will be eager to see how the new-look Indian squad performs against an improving Afghanistan side.
