Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Krunal Pandya could be in line for an India comeback, with the left-arm spinner reportedly under consideration for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. According to a report by The Times of India, the selectors are discussing Krunal’s name as they assess their options in the spin department. India are scheduled to face Afghanistan in three T20Is from September 13, with all three matches set to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Krunal’s potential return comes after Axar Patel endured an underwhelming run in India’s recent T20I assignments against Ireland and England. Axar managed only four wickets across six matches, prompting the team management to consider alternatives for the left-arm spin role.
Krunal Pandya last represented India in 2021 during a T20I against Sri Lanka in Colombo. He made his international debut in the format in 2018 against the West Indies and has played 19 T20Is for India, taking 15 wickets at an economy rate of 8.10.
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The report also provided updates on several players recovering from injuries. All-rounders Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy have reportedly regained fitness and are available for selection, while Washington Sundar is closing in on the clearances required to return to the national setup.
Krunal Pandya Set for India T20I Return? 🏏
• Under consideration after 5 years out of T20I squad.
• Selectors look for left-arm spinner after Axar’s modest form.
• Took 31 wickets & hit 335 runs for RCB across 2025–26 IPLs.
• India face Afghanistan in 3 T20Is in Delhi… pic.twitter.com/LrmFL8N0Ws
— Cricket Hub (@Anurag9793) August 31, 2026
Jasprit Bumrah, meanwhile, could be rested for the Afghanistan T20I series as India continue to carefully manage his workload. The premier fast bowler is expected to return for the Asian Games, provided his rehabilitation progresses without any setbacks.
Krunal’s impressive performances for RCB have strengthened his case for an international recall. The franchise signed him for ₹5.75 crore at the IPL 2025 auction, and he quickly became an important part of their bowling attack.
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He was RCB’s joint second-highest wicket-taker during their 2025 title-winning campaign, claiming 17 wickets in 15 matches at an average of 22.29 and an economy rate of 8.23. His contribution peaked in the final, where he delivered a Player of the Match performance.
Across two seasons with RCB, Krunal Pandya has featured in 31 matches and taken 31 wickets at an average of 25.94 and an economy rate of 8.33. He has also contributed with the bat, scoring 335 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate of 139, including two half-centuries. While Krunal Pandya is reportedly being considered, the final decision on his inclusion in India’s T20I squad will depend on the selectors.
