The excitement is building across India as the national team gears up for their return to Test cricket. With the one-off Test against Afghanistan set to begin on June 6, 2026, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur (New Chandigarh), fans are eagerly anticipating high-quality red-ball action. This marks the stadium’s debut as a Test venue and India’s first five-day encounter since their previous home series.
A Fresh Chapter Under New Leadership
Shubman Gill leads the Indian side as captain for the first time in Tests, with KL Rahul as his deputy. The squad blends proven performers with exciting young talent, signaling a new era in Indian red-ball cricket. Key names include:
- Batting strength: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, and the explosive Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper).
- All-round options: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, and Harsh Dubey.
- Spin and pace attack: Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar.
The team arrived in New Chandigarh earlier this week and has already begun net sessions, focusing on sharpening their skills ahead of the red-ball grind. Videos and images of the squad training show high energy, with Gill and his teammates putting in serious preparation.
Afghanistan’s Challenge
Afghanistan, captained by Hashmatullah Shahidi, will bring their signature spin-heavy attack and improving batting depth. Players like Rashid Khan (expected in limited-overs), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Azmatullah Omarzai add significant threat. While India enters as strong favorites, Afghanistan has shown they can compete, especially in conditions that assist spin.
This series also serves as crucial preparation for India ahead of tougher challenges later in 2026, including tours of Sri Lanka and New Zealand.
Full Series Schedule
- Only Test: June 6–10, 2026 – Mullanpur, New Chandigarh (9:30 AM IST start).
- 1st ODI: June 13, 2026 – Dharamsala.
- 2nd ODI: June 17, 2026 – Lucknow.
- 3rd ODI: June 20, 2026 – Chennai.
What to Expect from the Promo & Match
Hotstar’s promotional video captures the thrill of this India-Afghanistan encounter, highlighting the passion of Indian cricket fans, the intensity of Test cricket, and the promise of exciting matchups between bat and ball. Expect spin duels, aggressive batting from India’s top order, and a packed stadium atmosphere in Mullanpur for this historic occasion.
Tickets are reportedly affordable (starting from ₹250 in some categories), making it accessible for fans to witness live Test cricket. Whether you’re watching on Hotstar or at the ground, this promises to be a memorable start to India’s home season.
Stay tuned to Hotstar for live coverage, highlights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. The red ball is back — and Indian cricket is ready to roar! 🏏
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