By Cricketing fans are eagerly waiting for the India vs Afghanistan series in June 2026, and for good reason. This multi-format contest is not just another bilateral series; it reflects how far Afghanistan has come in world cricket. With Shubman Gill leading India as shubman gill test captain, and veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli returning in the virat kohli odi squad, this series promises a perfect blend of youth, experience, and competition.
India vs Afghanistan 2026 Series Overview
The India vs Afghanistan 2026 series will feature one Test match and three ODIs across four venues in India. The series begins in Chandigarh and then moves to Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Chennai. Fans can expect a competitive contest, especially because this is an important step in Afghanistan’s cricketing journey.
This tour also gives India a chance to test new players while relying on senior names like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the ODI setup. The combination of fresh talent and established stars makes the India vs Afghanistan squad 2026 especially interesting.
Match Schedule and Venues
| Detail | Information |
| Dates | June 6–10, 2026 |
| Venue | Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur Chandigarh |
| Start Time | 9:30 AM IST |
| Format | 5-day Test match |
| Significance | Only second Test between both teams |
Three-Match ODI Series
| Match | Date | Venue | Start Time |
| 1st ODI | June 13, 2026 | HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala | 1:30 PM IST |
| 2nd ODI | June 17, 2026 | Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow | 1:30 PM IST |
| 3rd ODI | June 20, 2026 | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai | 1:30 PM IST |
India vs Afghanistan Squad 2026
The India vs Afghanistan squad 2026 includes a mix of proven performers and promising newcomers. India has named Shubman Gill as captain in both formats, while KL Rahul has been appointed vice-captain for the Test. In ODIs, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli headline the batting group, adding experience and stability.
India Test Squad 2026
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- KL Rahul (Vice-Captain)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Sai Sudharsan
- Rishabh Pant (Wicket-keeper)
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
- Manav Suthar
- Gurnoor Brar
- Harsh Dubey
- Dhruv Jurel (Wicket-keeper)
India ODI Squad 2026
The virat kohli odi squad is one of the biggest talking points of this tour. Along with Kohli, Rohit Sharma is also part of the white-ball setup, giving India a powerful top order.
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain)
- KL Rahul (Wicket-keeper)
- Ishan Kishan (Wicket-keeper)
- Hardik Pandya
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
- Prasidh Krishna
- Prince Yadav
- Gurnoor Brar
- Harsh Dubey
Afghanistan Squad 2026
Afghanistan also arrives with a strong squad led by Hashmatullah Shahidi. Their team includes experienced names and key match-winners who can challenge India in the right conditions.
Fareed Malik
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
Abdul Malik
Sediqullah Atal
Rahmat Shah
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Rahmanullah Zadran
Afsar Zazai
Nangyal Kharotai
Qais Ahmad
Bilal Sami
Zia Sharifi
Saleem Safi
Ibrahim Zadran
Mohammad Nabi
Azmatullah Omarzai
Rashid Khan
AM Ghazanfar
Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi
India vs Afghanistan Playing 11 (Test 2026)
The India vs Afghanistan Playing 11 (Test 2026) will depend on pitch conditions, balance, and final selection decisions. Based on the current squad and available options, India may go with a combination of batting depth, spin options, and pace attack.
Predicted India Test Playing 11
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Sai Sudharsan
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
- Harsh Dubey
The biggest point of interest here is Harsh Dubey’s Test Debut. The left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder has earned his maiden call-up and could get a chance in the playing XI. If that happens, it will be one of the most exciting debut stories of the series.
Why Harsh Dubey Matters
The Harsh Dubey Test Debut narrative adds freshness to the Test match. India has often rewarded domestic performers, and Dubey fits that pattern. His selection also shows how the selectors are looking to build depth for the future.
India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats
The India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats record clearly shows India’s dominance, but Afghanistan has still managed to make games competitive at times. This makes the rivalry more interesting than just the numbers suggest.
Head-to-Head Summary
| Format | Matches | India Won | Afghanistan Won | Tie | No Result |
| Test | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| ODI | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| T20I | 8 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Total | 13 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
Format Breakdown : Test Cricket
India and Afghanistan have played only one Test so far, and India won that match comfortably by an innings and 262 runs.
ODI Cricket
In ODIs, India has a strong record against Afghanistan. The teams have played four matches, with India winning three and one ending in a tie.
T20I Cricket
India has also dominated in T20Is, winning most of the matches played between the two teams and remaining unbeaten in World Cup meetings.
This record is important because it helps readers understand the context behind the upcoming series. Even though India is the stronger side on paper, Afghanistan has enough quality to create pressure in certain phases of the game.
India vs Afghanistan World Cup Matches History
The India vs Afghanistan World Cup Matches History is short but memorable. Every time these two sides have met in ICC events, India has managed to come out on top. Still, those matches have helped build the rivalry and bring Afghanistan into global cricket conversations.
Notable World Cup Encounters
| Date | Tournament | Result | Score |
| November 11, 2023 | ODI World Cup | India won | India 273/2 beat Afghanistan 272/8 |
| June 22, 2019 | ODI World Cup | India won | India 224/8 beat Afghanistan 213 |
| March 5, 2014 | Asia Cup | India won | India 160/2 beat Afghanistan 159 |
2023 ODI World Cup
India defeated Afghanistan in a tightly watched match and continued their unbeaten run.
2019 ODI World Cup
India again defeated Afghanistan, showing control in a pressure tournament environment.
T20 World Cup 2024
India won the Super 8 match against Afghanistan, extending its World Cup dominance.
This section works well for SEO because it connects current interest with historic rivalry. It also supports the keyword India vs Afghanistan World Cup Matches History in a natural way.
Rashid Khan vs India Complete Record
One of the most searched topics around this rivalry is the Rashid Khan vs India Complete Record. Rashid Khan is Afghanistan’s biggest match-winner and one of the most dangerous spinners in modern cricket.
Why Rashid Khan Is Important
Rashid Khan has troubled Indian batters in several formats with his pace, turn, and accuracy. His wicket-taking ability makes him a genuine threat, especially in limited-overs cricket.
Rashid Khan Record Table
| Format | Wickets per Match | Wicket Every | Field Chances |
| ODI | 1.7 | 31.7 balls | 42.5% |
| T20I | 1.7 | 13.2 balls | 51% |
| IPL | 1.2 | 19.1 balls | 47.1% |
In T20Is, Rashid has been highly effective, and his numbers against Indian batters make him one of Afghanistan’s strongest weapons. That is why the Rashid Khan vs India Complete Record remains a major point of interest before every India-Afghanistan clash.
For Afghanistan, Rashid’s role in the ODI series will be critical. He can shift momentum quickly, especially if India’s top order gives him room to attack.
Why This Series Matters
The India vs Afghanistan series matters for both teams for different reasons. For India, it is a chance to test leadership, experiment with new players, and give game time to a balanced squad. For Afghanistan, it is another opportunity to prove that they can compete against top-level opposition consistently.
India’s Perspective
Shubman Gill’s role as shubman gill test captain is one of the biggest storylines. His leadership will be closely watched, especially with young players in the Test squad. The return of Rohit Sharma and Kohli in ODIs also strengthens India’s white-ball ambitions.
Afghanistan’s Perspective
Afghanistan has made remarkable progress in international cricket. Their rise from associate status to Test cricket has already changed the global game, and series like this show how far they have come.
Where to Watch India vs Afghanistan 2026
Fans who want to follow the action live can watch the matches on Star Sports channels and stream them on JioHotstar. The Test match starts at 9:30 AM IST, while all ODIs begin at 1:30 PM IST.
This accessibility makes it easy for cricket fans across India and abroad to stay connected with the series from start to finish.
What to Expect From the Series
The Test match is likely to favor India, especially at home and with a balanced squad. The ODI series, however, could be more entertaining because of the presence of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Afghanistan’s spin attack led by Rashid Khan.
India’s Strengths
- Strong batting depth.
- Experienced ODI core.
- Quality spin and pace options.
- Leadership stability under Shubman Gill.
Afghanistan’s Strengths
- Rashid Khan as a wicket-taking threat.
- Solid middle-order experience.
- A squad with growing international confidence.
Final Thoughts
The India vs Afghanistan 2026 series is more than just a bilateral contest. It is a showcase of cricket’s growth, Afghanistan’s steady rise, and India’s continuing transition under shubman gill test captain. With the virat kohli odi squad, Rohit Sharma, fresh debutants, and the ever-dangerous Rashid Khan, this series has all the ingredients of a memorable cricketing event.
The India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats record may favor India, but cricket often surprises when pressure, conditions, and individual brilliance come together. That is exactly why this tour deserves attention from every cricket fan.
FAQ: India vs Afghanistan 2026 Series – Everything You Need to Know
1. What is the India vs Afghanistan 2026 schedule and venue details?
The India vs Afghanistan 2026 series begins with a one-off Test match from June 6–10, 2026 at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur (Chandigarh). The three-match ODI series follows on June 13 (Dharamsala), June 17 (Lucknow), and June 20 (Chennai). All matches start at 1:30 PM IST for ODIs and 9:30 AM IST for the Test.
2. Who is the captain of India vs Afghanistan squad 2026?
Shubman Gill is the captain for both Test and ODI formats in the India vs Afghanistan squad 2026. He continues as Shubman Gill test captain across formats, with KL Rahul as vice-captain for the Test match and Shreyas Iyer for ODIs.
3. Is Virat Kohli in the India vs Afghanistan ODI squad 2026?
Virat Kohli may not feature in India’s ODI series against Afghanistan due to a reported hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026 final. As per multiple media reports, Kohli is likely to miss the series, although there has been no official confirmation from BCCI yet. Reports suggest that Ruturaj Gaikwad is being considered as a possible replacement in the squad if Kohli is ruled out.
However, this remains speculation based on reports, and fans are advised to wait for the official squad announcement or fitness update from the team management.
4. Is Rohit Sharma playing in the India vs Afghanistan 2026 series?
Rohit Sharma is named in India’s ODI squad for the India vs Afghanistan 2026 series, but his participation is subject to fitness clearance. The veteran opener is expected to return alongside Virat Kohli for the white-ball matches after being rested for the Test.
5. What is the India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats record?
The India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats record stands at 13 matches: India won 11, Afghanistan won 0, 1 tie, and 1 no result. India leads 1-0 in Tests, 3-0 (1 tie) in ODIs, and 7-0 (1 no result) in T20Is.
6. Has Harsh Dubey made his Test debut against Afghanistan?
Yes, Harsh Dubey Test Debut is highly likely for the India vs Afghanistan Playing 11 (Test 2026). The 23-year-old Vidarbha left-arm spinner received his maiden Test call-up and R Ashwin has predicted he could feature in the playing XI against Afghanistan.
7. What are Rashid Khan’s stats vs India?
The Rashid Khan vs India Complete Record shows impressive statistics despite India’s team dominance:
- ODI: 1.7 wickets per match, wicket every 31.7 balls
- T20I: 1.7 wickets per match, wicket every 13.2 balls
- IPL: 1.2 wickets per match, wicket every 19.1 balls
Rashid Khan remains Afghanistan’s most dangerous bowler against India.
8. What is the India vs Afghanistan World Cup Matches History?
In India vs Afghanistan World Cup Matches History, India has won all encounters:
- 2023 ODI World Cup: India won (India 273/2 beat Afghanistan 272/8)
- 2019 ODI World Cup: India won (India 224/8 beat Afghanistan 213)
- T20 World Cup 2024: India won in Super 8 stage
India remains undefeated against Afghanistan in World Cup cricket.
9. What is the India vs Afghanistan Playing 11 (Test 2026) expected lineup?
The expected India vs Afghanistan Playing 11 (Test 2026) includes:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Sai Sudharsan
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
- Harsh Dubey (likely debutant)
10. Where can I watch India vs Afghanistan 2026 live streaming and telecast?
All India vs Afghanistan 2026 matches will be:
- TV Telecast: Star Sports Network (all channels)
- Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website
- Test Time: 9:30 AM IST
- ODI Time: 1:30 PM IST
International fans can check local sports broadcasters for regional coverage.
11. Who are the new players in India vs Afghanistan squad 2026?
The India vs Afghanistan squad 2026 features three maiden Test call-ups:
- Manav Suthar (Gujarat Titans)
- Harsh Dubey (Vidarbha)
- Gurnoor Brar
Additionally, Prince Yadav receives his maiden ODI call-up, representing India’s focus on fresh talent under Shubman Gill test captain leadership.
12. What is the significance of India vs Afghanistan 2026 Test match?
The Test match is only the second Test ever played between India and Afghanistan. The first was in June 2018 (Bengaluru), where India won by an innings and 262 runs. This historic bilateral Test showcases Afghanistan’s growth as a Test-playing nation.
13. Will Afghanistan win any match against India in 2026?
While the India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head All Formats record heavily favors India, Afghanistan’s spin attack led by Rashid Khan vs India Complete Record makes them competitive. Home conditions and India’s experimental squad with debutants could make the ODI series interesting, though India remains favorite.
14. Is this the first ODI series between India and Afghanistan?
Yes, the June 2026 three-match ODI series is the first bilateral ODI series between India and Afghanistan. Previous ODI encounters occurred only in World Cups and Asia Cup tournaments, making this historic.
15. How many matches are in India vs Afghanistan 2026 series total?
The India vs Afghanistan 2026 series includes 4 matches total:
- 1 Test match (June 6–10)
- 3 ODIs (June 13, 17, 20)
This multi-format series kicks off the 2026-27 international season between both nations.
