According to a report, Gurnoor Brar could be set to make an unexpected India debut in the one-off Test against Afghanistan as the team management is keeping an eye on Mohammed Siraj’s fitness and workload ahead of the match in New Chandigarh.
Mohammed Siraj has already joined india squad in Chandigarh, but the final decision on their availability has not been taken yet. The fast bowler is coming off a challenging IPL 2026 campaign with Gujarat Titans and there have been discussions over whether he should be rested for the Tests. With the match around the corner, the Indian think tank is expected to take a decision on the matter in the next few days.
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Mohammad Siraj doubtful to play in Afghanistan test match
India’s preparations for the Afghanistan Test have been overshadowed by uncertainty over Mohammed Siraj’s availability. The fast bowler featured in every match for Gujarat Titans during IPL 2026 and was also a part of the final against Royal Challengers Bangalore on May 31. Narendra Modi Stadium In Ahmedabad.
According to a report in Times of India, the medical staff is keeping a close eye on fast bowler Mohammad Siraj before taking the final decision.
“TimesofIndia.com has learned that the medical staff is monitoring Siraj, who has already reached Chandigarh, but his participation depends on his assessment over the next two days,” the report said.
The possibility of Siraj being rested due to increased workload during the IPL was discussed. However, the selectors and team management were reluctant to go ahead with it afghanistan test With a completely inexperienced fast attack. As a result, the final decision on Siraj’s participation is expected to have a direct impact on India’s bowling combination.
Gurnoor Brar beats Auqib Nabi to make India debut
If Mohammed Siraj is eventually rested, the left-arm fast bowler Gurnoor Brar likely to be the biggest beneficiary. Despite Auqib Nabi being in the team as a net bowler and enjoying a stellar domestic season, indications are that Gurnoor is next in the pecking order to make the playing eleven.
The report says that if Siraj is rested then Nabi could be included in the team, but Gurnoor is the frontrunner to get his first India cap.
“It has been a long season for Siraj and if he is rested, there is every possibility that Gurnoor will play and Nabi will come into the team,” a source following the developments told TimesofIndia.com.
Nabi has made every effort to take his case forward. The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler enjoyed a sensational Ranji Trophy campaign, taking 60 wickets and playing a major role in helping his team lift the title.
Notably, he is currently one of six net bowlers to assist Indian team Before the Test with Gurjapaneet Singh, Prince Yadav, Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari and Shivang Kumar.
How was Mohammed Siraj’s performance in IPL 2026?
Mohammed Siraj was one of the most-used bowlers for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026 and played all 17 matches for the franchise, including the final. He finished the tournament with 19 wickets at an average of 29.57 and an economy rate of 9.06.
The right-arm fast bowler delivered several impressive spells during the season. His best performance came against Chennai Super Kings when he took 3 for 26 in Ahmedabad. Mohammed Siraj, while constantly sharing the responsibility with the new ball for the Titans, also took two wickets against Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Whereas Mohammad SirajHis economy rate remained high in some matches, with his ability to strike at crucial moments leading to Gujarat Titans continuing to back him throughout the campaign. After bowling 372 balls in a long IPL season and performing till the final, workload management has naturally become an important consideration ahead of the upcoming India assignment.