The anticipation is building ahead of the one-off Test between India and Afghanistan, which is set to begin on June 6, 2026, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur. The match marks Afghanistan’s return to Indian soil for a red-ball contest eight years after the two teams first met in Test cricket. While India enter the fixture as favourites, the game presents an excellent opportunity for both sides to test their bench strength and gain valuable experience in the longest format.
With several established stars unavailable and the selectors keen to evaluate emerging talent, discussions around India’s playing XI have intensified. Adding his voice to the debate, former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble has revealed the XI he would like to see take the field against Afghanistan.
Anil Kumble picks his India XI for the one-off Test
Solid openers
Kumble has entrusted the opening responsibilities to KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, a pair capable of providing both stability and aggression. Rahul’s experience in overseas and home conditions makes him a reliable option at the top, while Jaiswal has established himself as one of India’s most promising Test batters with his fearless approach and ability to convert starts into big scores.
The duo’s contrasting styles could give India the ideal foundation against an Afghanistan attack expected to rely heavily on discipline and spin.
Dynamic middle-order
The middle order selected by Kumble combines flair with consistency. Devdutt Padikkal gets the nod at No. 3, followed by captain Shubman Gill and the explosive Rishabh Pant.
Gill will have the added responsibility of leading the side, while Pant’s return to the Test setup continues to excite fans. Known for changing the course of matches with aggressive strokeplay, Pant adds an unpredictable element to India’s batting lineup. Together, the trio offers a healthy mix of technical skill, temperament and attacking intent.
Star all-rounders
One of the standout features of Kumble’s XI is the inclusion of multiple all-rounders. Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy provide balance by contributing with both bat and ball, while Harsh Dubey strengthens the lower order and adds another spin option.
Their presence allows India to maintain batting depth without compromising on bowling resources, a strategy that has often served the team well in home conditions.
Skillful bowling attack
Kumble’s bowling unit combines variety and control. Kuldeep Yadav spearheads the spin department with his wrist-spin, while Dubey and Washington can offer valuable support. In the pace attack, Mohammed Siraj brings experience and intensity, while left-arm seamer Gurnoor Brar adds a different dimension with his height and ability to generate bounce. The combination gives India multiple wicket-taking options across all phases of the game.
Fans excited for the high-voltage clash
With the match fast approaching, fans are eagerly awaiting the rare Test encounter between India and Afghanistan. Kumble’s suggested XI has sparked discussions among supporters, many of whom are excited to see a blend of established stars and emerging talents in action.
As India prepare for the Mullanpur showdown, all eyes will be on the final team selection and whether it resembles the balanced lineup envisioned by one of the country’s greatest cricketers.
