IND vs AFG 2026: Gill Chooses to Bat, Young Talent Manav Sutar Gets India Debut
The much-anticipated IND vs AFG 2026 Test Match began on Saturday at the Mullanpur Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. Team India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bat first in the only Test of the series.
Explaining the decision, Gill stated that the bright sunshine and batting-friendly conditions influenced India’s strategy. The match started at 9:30 AM and is being broadcast live on Star Sports and JioHotstar.
Manav Sutar Receives Maiden Test Cap
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the match was the inclusion of promising youngster Manav Sutar in India’s playing XI. The young spinner earned his first Test cap as Team India continues to build a strong squad for the future of red-ball cricket.
The management has shown confidence in several emerging players, and this match offers an important opportunity for young talents to prove themselves on the international stage.
India Looking to Bounce Back
India enters the match after a mixed run in Test cricket. While Shubman Gill’s side received widespread praise for its performances during the England tour, the team faced criticism following a disappointing home series defeat against South Africa.
The series also brought changes in leadership responsibilities. Senior batter KL Rahul has now been entrusted with vice-captaincy duties as India aims to strengthen its Test setup moving forward.
Special Significance for Afghanistan Cricket
This is only the second Test match ever played between India and Afghanistan. Their first encounter took place in 2018, where India secured a dominant victory.
That historic match was remembered not only for India’s win but also for the spirit of cricket shown afterward, with Afghan players joining the trophy celebrations. Afghanistan’s cricket administration has repeatedly appreciated India’s support in helping develop cricket in the country through bilateral series across formats.
India Playing XI
- KL Rahul
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Rishabh Pant
- Washington Sundar
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Manav Sutar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
Afghanistan Playing XI
- Abdul Malik
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Rahmat Shah
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
- Sediqullah Atal
- Afsar Zazai
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Sharafuddin Ashraf
- Mohammad Salim Safi
- Zia Rahman Sharifi
- Nangeyalia Kharote
Why This Match Matters
- Manav Sutar’s much-awaited Test debut.
- India’s preparations for upcoming Test assignments.
- Afghanistan’s continued growth in red-ball cricket.
- A rare India vs Afghanistan Test contest after eight years.
FAQ
Who won the toss in the IND vs AFG 2026 Test Match?
Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first for India.
Where is the India vs Afghanistan Test being played?
The match is being held at Mullanpur Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.
Who is making his Test debut for India?
Young spinner Manav Sutar is making his Test debut for Team India.
How can fans watch the IND vs AFG Test live?
The match is available live on Star Sports channels and JioHotstar.
When was the previous Test match between India and Afghanistan played?
The previous and only Test between the two teams was played in 2018.
Conclusion
The IND vs AFG 2026 Test Match has started with plenty of excitement as Shubman Gill chose to bat first after winning the toss. The spotlight will be firmly on debutant Manav Sutar and India’s young core as they look to make a strong statement. For Afghanistan, the match represents another important step in their journey as a growing Test-playing nation.
