Afghanistan is set to engage in a riveting 3-match T20I series against India, commencing on January 11. The series opener unfolds in Mohali, followed by matches in Indore and Bengaluru. Spearheading the Indian squad is Rohit Sharma, while Ibrahim Zadran assumes leadership for the Afghani side.
Key players from Afghanistan include Mohammad Nabi, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, while Shubman Gill, and Kuldeep Yadav stand out for India. Mohali’s playing surface is anticipated to provide a balanced track, offering support to both batsmen and bowlers. Pacers are poised to find early assistance, with spinners also expected to play a significant role throughout the matches.
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A notable factor is the prevalent winter dew, especially in the northern region, serving as a decisive element for the toss-winning captain. Despite Mohali’s historically batting-friendly conditions, the large square boundaries could present an interesting challenge for the players. The series promises exciting cricket action against the backdrop of climatic and pitch dynamics.
India
Rohit Sharma is poised to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Shubman Gill steps in at No.3 in the absence of Virat Kohli for the Mohali encounter. Sanju Samson, showcasing his century prowess in South Africa, is a strong contender for the wicketkeeping duties.
Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav/Ravi Bishnoi, Mukesh Kumar
Afghanistan
The absence of Rashid Khan presents a challenge to the team’s balance, but the potential inclusion of Mujeeb, following his recent ACB clearance, suggests a likely return to the playing XI, leveraging his IPL experience. Noor Ahmad also emerges as a plausible option for selection in this pivotal India series. The team dynamics promise an intriguing blend of experience and emerging talent.
Probable XI: Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (C), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad/Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli (vc), Shubman Gill, Ibrahim Zadran, Rinku Singh, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sanju Samson, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi
