The Indian cricket team has entered a significant period of transition, moving from the vibrant atmosphere of the IPL to the traditional Test whites for a highly anticipated one-off Test match against Afghanistan, commencing June 06, 2026. This historic encounter is taking place at the brand-new Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh, marking the venue’s debut as India‘s 31st Test ground.
After winning the toss in hot and humid conditions, young captain Shubman Gill elected to bat first. Although this standalone red-ball fixture does not contribute points to the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, it serves as a vital strategic milestone for a changing Indian squad. Following a difficult 0-2 series loss in South Africa late last year, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the management are using this match as a crucial testing ground to refine player combinations ahead of demanding upcoming tours in Sri Lanka and Australia.
The Reason Behind Devdutt Padikkal’s Absence from the Playing XI
A major talking point heading into the New Chandigarh Test was the competition for India’s vital No. 3 batting position. Ultimately, Karnataka’s elegant left-hander Devdutt Padikkal was not included in the starting lineup. His exclusion is the result of a deliberate tactical decision by head coach Gautam Gambhir to provide the incumbent No. 3, B Sai Sudharsan, with a consistent opportunity to solidify his role.
Padikkal arrived at the selection meeting with a compelling case, having amassed 543 runs at an impressive average of 60.33 in the Ranji Trophy, highlighted by a massive 232 in the semi-finals. Despite this exceptional domestic form, the management chose to prioritize stability over reactionary changes. Speaking to the media before the match, Gambhir explained that evaluating players based on minimal sample sizes can hinder long-term development. Sudharsan, fresh from a prolific 700-run IPL season, was preferred as the management seeks to provide him with the stability needed to master the position. As a result, Padikkal will remain on the bench despite his outstanding red-ball performances.
Manav Suthar Earns Maiden Test Cap as India Introduces New Talent
While Padikkal was omitted from the batting lineup, India’s long-term strategy was clearly visible in the bowling department. Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar earned his maiden Test cap at Mullanpur. With veteran Ravindra Jadeja rested for this fixture, Suthar was thrust into the spotlight alongside Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar.
Gambhir noted that Suthar’s inclusion serves a specific tactical objective: identifying a reliable fourth spin option for the upcoming two-Test series in Sri Lanka this August, where tracks are expected to turn significantly. Suthar secured the spot over fellow domestic standout Harsh Dubey, offering Gill diverse release points on a pitch predicted to become slower and lower. Afghanistan also leaned into youth, handing a Test debut to their promising young spin-bowling all-rounder, Nangeyalia Kharote.