India assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate Provided an important insight into the team’s selection thinking ahead of the one-off Test against afghanistan In New Chandigarh. With the matches starting on June 6, the buzz around India’s probable XI has intensified, especially after several new faces got call-ups on the back of impressive domestic performances.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ten Doeschate addressed a number of key topics including fitness Mohammad Siraj And the balance of India’s bowling attack. Although the management is yet to decide on its final combination, his comments gave a strong indication that some notable decisions could be taken for the opening match of the series.
Two young spinners are trying to get Test cap for the first time
The biggest takeaway from Ten Doeschate’s media interaction was his admission that both Harsh Dubey And human improvement Stay in the race for selection. According to the assistant coach, the team management has not yet decided what the combination will be with the established spin options, -Kuldeep Yadav And washington beautiful. However, he did not rule out the possibility of including both the youngsters in the same playing eleven.
“As far as the two new spinners (Manav Suthar and Harsh Dubey) are concerned, there is very little chance that both will play. We have not decided who among the two will play with Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar.” Ten Douchet said.
Both Dubey and Suthar have built strong reputations in domestic cricket over the last few seasons. His consistent wicket-taking ability and familiarity with spin-friendly conditions have strengthened his claims for selection. Interestingly, the pair have been playing together since their age-group cricket days and have a deep understanding between them on and off the field.
Also read: IND vs AFG: Top 5 players to keep an eye on in the one-off Test, ft Gurnoor Brar
India considering spin-heavy combination in New Chandigarh
With Afghanistan expected to field several quality spinners, India may also respond with their spin-heavy attack. He is almost certain to lead the spin department, while Washington Sundar’s all-round ability makes him a valuable option. The remaining spot could go to Dubey or Suthar, although ten Doeschate’s comments suggest the management is still assessing different combinations. If conditions are deemed suitable, India may also consider fielding both the debutants along with their experienced spin options.
Upcoming contests will not count ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, but it presents a valuable opportunity for India to test emerging talent and build depth ahead of a packed international calendar. As things stand, all eyes will be on the team sheet in New Chandigarh, where Dubey and Suthar can look to realize their long-awaited dream of representing India in Test cricket.
Also read: BCCI appoints new spin-bowling coach ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan