Mohammed Shami and Sanju Samson Tipped for India Return vs Afghanistan
The Road Ahead: India Faces Afghanistan
Following the conclusion of the high-octane 2026 Indian Premier League season, the focus shifts back to international cricket as Team India prepares to host Afghanistan. The series promises to be an intriguing encounter, featuring a one-off Test match followed by a three-match One Day International (ODI) series. As the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee convenes to finalize the squads, all eyes are on potential comebacks and tactical shuffles.
Schedule and Venues
The action kicks off with the solitary Test match, scheduled to be held from June 6 to 10 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. Following the conclusion of the red-ball fixture, the limited-overs leg begins on June 14. The first ODI will take place at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, followed by the second encounter at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on June 17, and the series finale in Chennai at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium on June 20.
Mohammed Shami: Leading the Pace Attack
The return of Mohammed Shami to the Test squad is perhaps the most significant talking point. With senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah expected to be rested and Mohammed Siraj also potentially taking a break, the selection committee is looking to bolster the bowling department with experience. Shami, who has been sidelined from Test cricket since the June 2023 World Test Championship Final, has demonstrated remarkable fitness and form.
His performance in the domestic circuit has been nothing short of exemplary. During the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, Shami claimed 37 wickets in just 13 innings. His white-ball prowess has also been on display, securing 15 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 16 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His ongoing participation with the Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026, where he has picked up 10 wickets in 12 matches, proves that he is match-ready to lead the Indian pace attack once again.
Sanju Samson Set for ODI Recall
In the limited-overs format, Sanju Samson appears poised for a recall to the ODI squad. After a stellar showing in the 2026 T20 World Cup and back-to-back centuries during the ongoing IPL 2026 season for the Chennai Super Kings, Samson has made a compelling case for his inclusion. Selectors are reportedly looking to stabilize the middle order, and Samson’s current form makes him a primary candidate to don the gloves and provide stability behind the stumps.
Strategic Squad Rotation
The BCCI is expected to utilize this series as an opportunity to test squad depth. While the ODI setup is likely to maintain a level of stability mirroring recent performances, the Test team may see more significant rotations. Managing the workload of premium fast bowlers remains a priority for the selection committee, especially given the density of the international calendar. By integrating experienced campaigners like Shami back into the fold, the team management aims to maintain a balance between resting key players and ensuring high-quality performance in every match.
Building Momentum
Afghanistan, while often viewed as a growing force in international cricket, presents a unique challenge that necessitates a professional and disciplined approach. For India, these matches serve as vital preparation for future assignments. Whether it is Shami’s return to rhythm in whites or Samson’s opportunity to cement his place in the ODI XI, the series against Afghanistan is brimming with individual storylines that could define the next chapter of Indian cricket. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the official announcement from the BCCI, as the nation looks forward to seeing these two talented cricketers back in the famous blue and white jerseys.
