New Delhi: Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to announce India’s squad for the upcoming Test and ODI series against Afghanistan later this week, with several selection decisions likely to draw attention ahead of the home assignment.
India will host Afghanistan in a bilateral series scheduled from June 6 to June 20, featuring a one off Test in New Chandigarh followed by a three match ODI series. The senior men’s selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to pick a near full strength squad for the red ball contest, though uncertainty remains over the availability of Jasprit Bumrah.
Reports suggest the pace spearhead could be rested as part of workload management plans, particularly because the Afghanistan Test does not form part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. If Bumrah is left out, Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi Dar is emerging as a strong contender for a maiden national call up after a standout domestic season.
Auqib played a crucial role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph earlier this year and finished as the tournament’s leading wicket taker, significantly boosting his chances of selection.
The ODI squad selection is also expected to generate debate, especially regarding India’s pace bowling options. With Harshit Rana sidelined due to injury and Mohammed Shami reportedly no longer in immediate selection plans, the selectors could look at younger fast bowlers to strengthen the attack.
Questions also remain over the inclusion of senior players such as Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel for the ODI leg of the series.
Meanwhile, Prince Yadav is reportedly in contention for his first India call up after impressing with consistent performances for Lucknow Super Giants in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League.
