IND vs AFG Test: Predicted India squad and key picks

India are set to host Afghanistan in a one-off Test match at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium from June 6 to 10. The encounter marks only the second time the two sides will meet in red-ball cricket on Indian soil. In their previous meeting, India secured a dominant victory under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, and they will be aiming to replicate a similar performance with a refreshed squad.

India will enter the match after a disappointing 2-0 Test series defeat against South Africa national cricket team. With the ongoing World Test Championship cycle in mind, the team management is expected to experiment with new faces while maintaining a competitive balance.

Here are India's predicted squad for only Test vs Afghanistan:

Batters: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (C/WK)

The batting lineup is likely to feature a mix of youth and experience. Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are expected to open the innings, providing stability at the top. The No.3 position could be contested between Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, with Padikkal having a strong case after scoring 543 runs in six Ranji Trophy matches.

Sarfaraz Khan is likely to take the crucial No.4 spot, especially in the absence of Shubman Gill. The middle order will also include Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant, with Pant not only handling wicketkeeping duties but also captaining the side.