Shreyas Iyer Discusses Bumrah's Comeback and Team Dynamics Ahead of T20I Series

As India prepares for the T20I series against Afghanistan, captain Shreyas Iyer emphasizes the importance of match experience for Jasprit Bumrah, who is returning from injury. Iyer also updates on the fitness of Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy, while discussing the team's strategy and player roles. With the Asian Games and ODI World Cup on the horizon, Bumrah's performance in this series is crucial for regaining match rhythm. Iyer expresses optimism about the team's readiness and Kishan's expected fitness for the match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 12, 2026, 20:25 IST

Bumrah Requires Match Experience to Build Confidence

On Saturday, Shreyas Iyer, the captain of India's T20I team, emphasized the necessity for Jasprit Bumrah to gain regular match experience to restore his confidence following an injury hiatus. As India gears up to face Afghanistan in the first T20I on September 13, Bumrah's fitness has been a focal point. He was included in the initial squad for the three-match series but needed a fitness evaluation after missing several international matches due to a recurring left-knee injury.

During the pre-match press conference, Iyer acknowledged Bumrah's extensive experience but stressed the importance of playing matches for any athlete returning from injury, especially with significant tournaments on the horizon. "For a player coming back from injury, it's crucial to get game time. Confidence is key when re-entering the game. Despite his vast experience, I believe that more game time is essential for anyone recovering from an injury," Iyer stated.

Iyer also mentioned that he spoke with Bumrah the previous day, noting the pacer's eagerness to contribute to the team's success. "I had a conversation with him yesterday, and he is determined to perform for the team and help us secure championships," Iyer added.

Bumrah's return is timely, coinciding with the upcoming Asian Games and the ODI World Cup next year, making the Afghanistan T20I series a critical opportunity for him to regain his match rhythm.

Updates on Sundar and Reddy's Fitness

Iyer also provided insights into the fitness status of Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy, both of whom have recently recovered from injuries. He reported that the players appeared fit after completing high-intensity training sessions. Sundar missed the recent two-match Test series in Sri Lanka due to a hamstring injury sustained during the second ODI against England in July. Reddy last played for India during the home ODI series against Afghanistan in June before exacerbating a left quadriceps injury, which sidelined him from tours to Ireland, England, and Sri Lanka.

"Currently, our focus is on tomorrow's game. All players returning from injury seem fit and in great shape. We had two intense training sessions recently," Iyer remarked.

Prioritizing the Opening Match Amidst a Busy Schedule

Addressing the challenge of managing the squad with a packed schedule and limited recovery time, Iyer stated that the team's immediate focus is on the opening match. "I can't predict how we will manage the schedule, but I can assure you that the team is looking promising. We are well-prepared, and I want to maintain an optimistic outlook for the game," he said.

Ishan Kishan Expected to Play

Iyer also updated the media on Ishan Kishan, who experienced a minor injury during a batting practice session. The T20I captain expressed confidence in Kishan's fitness for the upcoming match. "He seems comfortable right now. I spoke with him after practice, and it was just a minor issue. He has been playing continuously, so a bit of fatigue is expected. However, he rested today, and I believe he will be ready for tomorrow," Iyer noted.

Clarifying Player Roles and Team Composition

Regarding team composition, Iyer emphasized the importance of players understanding their roles while feeling valued within the team. "It's crucial for each player to not only know their role but also to feel that the team needs them," he explained.

He further elaborated that framing a player's role in terms of the team's needs can alleviate pressure and enhance their sense of belonging. "When you define a role strictly, it can create immense pressure. If you communicate it as the team requiring them in a specific role, it fosters a sense of importance and belonging," the Indian T20I skipper concluded.

India's Squad for the Afghanistan T20I Series

The squad for the Afghanistan T20I series includes: Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Yash Thakur.