Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India Selection Committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to announce India’s squads for the upcoming one-off Test and three-match ODI series against Afghanistan later today. The selection meeting, reportedly scheduled to take place in Guwahati, has generated significant excitement as several major selection decisions are likely to be discussed. One of the biggest talking points ahead of the announcement is the future of Rishabh Pant in the ODI setup. Reports suggest that Pant may miss out on selection for the ODI squad, which could deal a serious blow to his hopes of featuring in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, KL Rahul is expected to continue as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper in the 50-over format. The selectors are also facing a difficult decision regarding the opening combination. With Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill likely to retain their places, young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal may struggle to find a spot in the ODI squad despite his recent performances.
Fitness concerns surrounding Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma could delay the final ODI squad announcement. Reports indicate that the selectors are awaiting greater clarity on their fitness before finalizing the team combinations. Several domestic performers are also reportedly under consideration for the Test squad. Left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal is believed to be in contention following an impressive domestic season and strong recent form. Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar has also emerged as a possible option for the longer format. In the pace department, Gurnoor Brar is reportedly being monitored closely as a backup fast-bowling option if senior pacers are rested. At the same time, all eyes remain on Jasprit Bumrah, whose workload management could become a key factor after a demanding IPL season.
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Another uncapped player attracting attention is Auqib Nabi, who has reportedly impressed selectors with a remarkable domestic campaign in which he claimed 60 wickets. Although concerns remain about his pace, sources suggest he could receive a maiden Test call-up. The selectors are also expected to deliberate on the inclusion of experienced pacer Mohammed Shami, who has shown good rhythm in the ongoing IPL season. Meanwhile, senior stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are almost certain to feature in the ODI squad, while uncertainty continues over the selection of Ravindra Jadeja. With several crucial decisions involving fitness, workload management and the future of younger players, the selection meeting is expected to play a major role in shaping India’s preparations ahead of the Afghanistan series. The official announcement is likely in the second half of the day once the selectors finalize their discussions.
