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Big changes in Team India, Devdutt Padikkal and Aaqib Nabi may get call for Afghanistan Test
Samira Vishwas | April 22, 2026 3:24 AM CST

News India Live, Digital Desk: Some new and surprising faces can be seen in the Indian team for the only Test match against Afghanistan in June. According to the latest reports, the selectors are seriously considering including Karnataka batsman Devdutt Padikkal and Jammu and Kashmir all-rounder Auqib Nabi in the team. This decision can be taken considering the workload management of senior players and the excellent performance of the players in domestic cricket. Return of Devdutt Padikkal? Padikkal has shown tremendous form in red-ball cricket (first-class) in recent months. Ranji Trophy performance: Padikkal has played many important innings this season, due to which he has attracted the attention of the selectors.Middle order option: If Shubman Gill is rested, Padikkal can prove to be a strong option in the middle order.Who is Aaqib Nabi? (The Rising Star) Jammu and Kashmir’s fast bowler and useful batsman Aaqib Nabi is the topic of discussion at the moment. All-round ability: Aaqib is known for his accurate fast bowling and aggressive batting in the lower order. Preparation to create history: If Aaqib is selected, he will become the next player from Jammu and Kashmir to make a place in the Indian Test team. The selectors believe that he has the ‘X-factor’ which can be useful for Team India in the future. Why bet on young players? Rest for senior players: Considering the fatigue of IPL 2026 and the busy international calendar, veterans like Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli can be given a break from this match. Non-WTC match: Since this match is not a part of the World Test Championship (WTC), BCCI has this excellent opportunity to test new talent. There is a chance. Honoring domestic performance: Possible selection of Aaqib Nabi and Padikkal will be a positive message to domestic cricketers that hard work pays off.Afghanistan vs India Test – at a glanceDate: June 6 to June 10, 2026Venue: Maharaja Yadvendra Singh Stadium, New ChandigarhKey players (probable): Rishabh Pant (discussed as captain), Devdutt Padikkal, Aaqib Nabi, Sai Sudarshan.


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