Ashwin Highlights Young Talent Ahead of India-Afghanistan Test

As India gears up for a one-off Test against Afghanistan, former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin emphasizes the potential of young talents like Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar. With veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja absent, Ashwin believes that Dubey's impressive domestic and IPL performances could lead to his debut. The spin attack will be led by Kuldeep Yadav, while Mohammed Siraj is expected to step up in the pace department. This match promises to showcase emerging players and their capabilities on the international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 14:49 IST

Focus on Emerging Players

As India prepares for a one-off Test against Afghanistan, former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is keenly observing spin bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey. Ashwin believes that Dubey's impressive performances in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL) will significantly benefit him.

The Test match is set to take place in New Chandigarh starting Saturday. With veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja absent, young talents Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar have been selected for the national team due to their outstanding domestic records.

Ashwin Discusses Spin Strategy

During a discussion on JioStar, Ashwin emphasized that Kuldeep Yadav will take the lead in the spin department in Jadeja's absence. He noted that Yadav's familiarity with local conditions will pose a considerable challenge for Afghanistan. Additionally, he highlighted Washington Sundar's capability to bowl extended spells, which will be essential on a deteriorating pitch.

"Kuldeep Yadav is set to spearhead the spin attack against Afghanistan. His rhythm and confidence have been remarkable, and his ability to turn the ball both ways makes him a significant threat. Washington Sundar will provide support as a more defensive bowler who can also contribute with the bat lower down the order. Their performances will be crucial for India's success in this match," Ashwin stated.

Spotlight on Harsh Dubey

"I am particularly interested in Harsh Dubey's potential debut. His strong domestic season and impressive IPL performance make him a player to watch. It will be interesting to see if the team opts for Dubey or Suthar," Ashwin added.

Dubey, who played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in this year's IPL, took eight wickets in eight matches with an average of 28.50. In his first-class career, he has claimed 133 wickets in 27 matches at an average of 23.26, including nine five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket hauls, alongside scoring 1,027 runs.

Suthar's Impressive Record

Rajasthan's Manav Suthar has also made a mark, taking 129 wickets in 29 first-class matches at an average of 25.76. His best figures stand at 8/33, with six five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket hauls. He has accumulated 945 runs in 48 innings, including a century and six fifties.

In the IPL for Gujarat Titans, Suthar took two wickets in four matches at an average of 34.00.

Pace Attack Insights

JioStar expert Saba Karim pointed out that Mohammed Siraj must rise to the occasion in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. He noted that Siraj's performances in the Test series against England demonstrate his capability for this role. Karim also mentioned uncapped pacer Gurnoor Brar, whose height provides natural bounce, which could be advantageous on Indian pitches.

"Siraj possesses the pace and aggression needed, along with the ability to swing the ball. However, he will require support from his teammates. Gurnoor Brar, standing at 6 feet 4 inches, can offer that support with his natural bounce," Karim explained.

India's Test Squad Against Afghanistan

The Indian Test squad for the match against Afghanistan includes: Shubman Gill (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vc), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, and Dhruv Jurel.