Anticipation is rising ahead of the only Test between India And afghanistanWhich is going to start on June 6, 2026 at Maharaja Yadvendra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur. The match marks Afghanistan’s return to Indian soil for the red-ball competition, eight years after the two teams first met in Test cricket. While India enter the competition 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 many established stars unavailable and selectors keen to evaluate emerging talent, the discussion over India’s playing XI has intensified. Adding his voice to the debate, former India captain and great spinner Anil Kumble He has revealed the eleven that he would like to see on the field against Afghanistan.
Anil Kumble chose his India XI for the one-off test
solid opener
Kumble has handed over the responsibility of opening KL Rahul And Yashasvi JaiswalA pair that is capable of providing both stability and aggression. Rahul’s experience in overseas and domestic conditions makes him a reliable option at the top, while Jaiswal has established himself as one of India’s most promising Test batsmen with his fearless approach and ability to convert starts into big scores.
The contrasting styles of these two could give India an ideal base against Afghanistan’s attack which relies heavily on discipline and spin.
dynamic middle order
The middle order chosen by Kumble combines flair with consistency. Devdutt Padikkal Number 3 gets the nod, followed by the captain Shubman Gill and explosives Rishabh Pant.
Gill will have the additional responsibility of leading the team, while Pant’s return to the Test team is exciting the fans. Known for changing the course of matches with aggressive strokeplay, Pant adds an unpredictable element to India’s batting lineup. Together, the trio offer a healthy mix of technical prowess, flair and attacking intent.
star allrounder
One of the most striking features of Kumble’s eleven is the inclusion of several all-rounders. washington beautiful And Nitish Kumar Reddy While providing balance by contributing with both bat and ball Harsh Dubey Strengthens the lower order and adds another spin option.
His presence allows India to maintain batting depth without compromising on bowling resources, a strategy that has often served the team well in home conditions.
efficient bowling attack
Kumble’s bowling unit is a combination of variety and control. -Kuldeep Yadav He leads the spin department with his wrist spin, while Dubey and Washington can provide valuable support. In pace attack, Mohammad Siraj The left-arm fast bowler brings experience and intensity, while Gurnoor Brar Adds a different dimension with his height and ability to generate bounce. This combination gives India many wicket-taking options at all stages of the game.
Fans excited about high-voltage clash
As the match is getting closer, fans are eagerly waiting for the rare test match between India and Afghanistan. Kumble’s suggested XI has sparked discussion among supporters, many of whom are excited to see a mix of established stars and emerging talent.
As India prepare for the Mullanpur clash, all eyes will be on the final team selection and whether it looks like the balanced lineup envisioned by one of the country’s greatest cricketers.
Also read: Team India’s schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of upcoming Tests, ODIs and T20Is
