The senior men’s selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar is set to convene next week to decide on the squads for India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan and the subsequent three ODIs. The Test is scheduled in New Chandigarh from June 6-10, while the ODIs will be held in Dharamshala, Lucknow, and Chennai on June 14, 17, and 20, respectively. Informal communication has been relayed to players in contention for a gradual increase in their playing workload post IPL 2026 to prepare for the upcoming matches.
Sources suggest that the selectors will meet around next week to make decisions on the squads. It remains uncertain whether the squads will be announced on the day of the meeting or after the conclusion of the IPL 2026 playoffs. While the batting lineup for the Test against Afghanistan is expected to remain stable, discussions will focus on the composition of the bowling unit. Jasprit Bumrah might be rested for the one-off Test to manage his workload for future commitments.
The Test against Afghanistan does not contribute to the World Test Championship cycle, opening up opportunities for pacers Auqib Nabi and Gurnoor Brar to potentially earn their debut in the red-ball format. The ODI squads are not likely to spring any surprises, but the second wicketkeeper position and the spin-bowling all-rounder role are points of deliberation. Rishabh Pant’s inconsistent IPL 2026 form contrasts with Ishan Kishan’s strong performances, adding intrigue to the selection process.
