India Faces Selection Challenges Ahead of Test Against Afghanistan

As Team India prepares for the One-Off Test against Afghanistan on June 6, uncertainty looms over pacer Mohammed Siraj's fitness following a hamstring injury. With the IPL season behind them, the team is focusing on recovery and workload management. The selectors are considering Gurnoor Brar and Auqib Nabi as potential replacements should Siraj be unable to play. The final decision on his participation is expected within the next 48 hours, making this a critical time for the team's strategy and lineup.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 3, 2026, 12:56 IST

India's Preparation for the One-Off Test

As the One-Off Test against Afghanistan approaches, scheduled for June 6 at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, Team India is grappling with a selection conundrum, particularly concerning Mohammed Siraj's potential participation.

Following the conclusion of IPL 2026, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) claimed their first title, the focus has shifted to national duties. Players selected for the Test have begun training in Mullanpur in preparation for the upcoming match.

Focus on Recovery and Workload Management

After an intense IPL season, the team management is emphasizing physical recovery and managing player workloads. Key players like Shubman Gill, Devdutt Padikkal, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, and Sai Sudharsan, who participated in the IPL final on May 31, are being closely monitored as they transition back to red-ball cricket.

Uncertainty Surrounds Mohammed Siraj's Availability

With just three days remaining before the Test, the status of pacer Mohammed Siraj is still unclear. The team management is expected to make a final decision regarding his fitness within the next 48 hours. Siraj, who sustained a hamstring injury during Qualifier 2 against the Rajasthan Royals, is currently under the watch of BCCI medical staff.

A source close to the BCCI indicated that while there was a desire to rest Siraj after a demanding IPL season, the selectors are hesitant to field an inexperienced bowling lineup. Should Siraj be rested, Gurnoor Brar is likely to debut, with Auqib Nabi being added to the squad.

Siraj's IPL Performance and Its Impact

Throughout the IPL season, Siraj played for the Gujarat Titans, bowling 372 balls over 62 overs and taking 19 wickets at an average of 29.57. His performance, which included the third-highest number of deliveries in IPL 2026, highlights the physical strain he has endured leading up to this crucial Test.

With Jasprit Bumrah also rested for the Test and the subsequent ODI series, Siraj's fitness has become a focal point for Team India's management, who are expected to finalize their decision soon.

Potential Debut for Auqib Nabi

Despite an impressive Ranji Trophy season where he took 60 wickets, pacer Auqib Nabi Dar was not initially included in the squad for the One-Off Test. However, he has been selected as one of six net bowlers for the training camp in Mullanpur, alongside Gurjapneet Singh, Prince Yadav, Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari, and Shivang Kumar.

Nabi's role as a net bowler allows the selectors to evaluate his fitness and rhythm closely. While Gurnoor Brar is the leading candidate to replace Siraj, Nabi could still be included in the main squad if Siraj's fitness does not meet the required standards.

Strategic Decisions Ahead of the Test

The decision regarding Auqib Nabi's inclusion in the playing XI could depend on whether the management opts for Gurnoor Brar's pace and height or Auqib Nabi's consistent domestic performance. The upcoming days will be crucial in determining the final lineup for the Test against Afghanistan.