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IND vs AFG: IPL team captain may make test debut, wicketkeeper may get big responsibility

Samira Vishwas | April 24, 2026 10:24 AM CST

IND vs AFG Only Test: Before the only Test against Afghanistan, the Indian team management is considering new options regarding the middle order. According to a report, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel and Rituraj Gaikwad are considered strong contenders for this contest. This test will be played from June 6 and many important decisions can be taken regarding the team combination.

According to the report, the team management is considering trying Dhruv Jurel as a batsman. Jurel has impressed with his technique and patience in domestic cricket and league matches. Devdutt Padikkal is being seen as an option for the third order, where he can challenge Sai Sudarshan. Padikkal is currently in great form for the Bengaluru team and is continuously scoring runs.

Rituraj may have a test debut
The selectors are also considering Rituraj Gaikwad as an important option. He believes that Gaikwad can prove useful against the spinning ball in Indian conditions. His technique and patience make him a strong candidate for the Test format. Gaikwad has shown his ability to play long innings earlier also.

Keep an eye on Bumrah’s workload
Meanwhile, the focus of the Indian Cricket Board is completely on the Test Championship. The report said that the board is giving priority to this cycle, even though the ODI World Cup is also to be held next. For this reason, a plan is being made to handle the workload of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

India has to play 9 tests in the next few months
According to sources, the biggest goal is to keep Bumrah completely fit for the test matches. He is being prepared to play in the upcoming 9 tests. For this, if needed, he can be given rest from some ODI matches. The board wants him to be fully available for the four Test matches of the tour of Sri Lanka and New Zealand, while also keeping him fresh for the big five-Test home series against Australia.

India will tour Sri Lanka for two Tests in August, followed by two Tests in New Zealand between October and December. After this, the home series against Australia in January-February 2027 will be the most important phase of this cycle. Currently, India is ranked sixth in the Test Championship table, where the team has recorded 4 wins and 4 losses in 9 matches. In such a situation, the upcoming matches are considered very important for the team.