Mumbai Indians

After months of T20 fireworks, it is now time to switch into whites as the games longest format takes centre stage once again. For Shubman Gill and the Indian team, the Afghan test awaits as we seek to blend youth, skill and home advantage into a winning formula. With the squad packed with experience, proven match winners and emerging stars, the hosts gear up against Afghanistan for a one-off Test Match at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur from 6th-10th June 2026. This marks the venue’s maiden Test match. Five interesting days of cricket, two ambitious teams and one big opportunity to make a lasting statement.

With IPL dressing rooms forging friendships and mutual admiration between players…every encounter carries a unique blend of intensity and camaraderie. But once the contest begins, friendships take a back seat as both sides compete fiercely for every run, every wicket and every session.

At the top for India, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will take on the responsibility of facing the new ball. Their ability to provide solid starts could set the tone for India putting up a big score. Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Padikkal and Pant carry a mix of elegance and aggression that can keep bowlers guessing what line and length needs to be bowled. All-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar provide flexibility and add depth with both bat and ball. Siraj and Prasidh Krishna could very well prove to be dangerous with the new ball while Kuldeep’s spin could fox the Afghan batters. Debutants Harsh Dubey and Gurnoor Brar could also get a go ahead depending on player combinations.

On the other hand, for Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi…it will be a true challenge in the middle to sustain the pressure and avoid the collapse just like what happened in 2018. Shahidi, known for his patience and record-breaking double centuries embodies the qualities the Afghan side need to compete over five days.

Some of the most notable match ups include Shubman Gill against the Afghanistan spin attack. Gills’s footwork and ability to score runs on the off and leg side will be crucial during the middle session. Once he settles in, India can take full control. On the other hand, Mohammad Siraj will be looking to get the better of Rahmanuallah Gurbaz. Siraj’s ability to move the ball both ways could test the aggressive batter and put him under pressure. Kuldeep Yadav versus Shahidi could prove to be decisive, if the spinner finds his rhythm early on…he could be the biggest threat for the Afghans. Keep a watch out for Sai Sudharsan who could be India’s X factor having been in terrific form with the bat lately.

When: 6th – 10th June 2026| 9:30 am IST

Where: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur

What to expect: This particular venue remains one of the newest international venues but promises to be a classic Test-Match wicket…Enough grass to keep the pacers interested early on. Once set, the batters will be able to play their brand of cricket. As the game advances into the third and fourth day, the surface will offer some kind of turn for the spinners. Big partnerships will hold key. The skipper winning the toss may be tempted to bat first, put a massive score on the board and then look to bat the opposition out of the game.

The stage is set, the red ball challenge is real and the spotlight awaits the team that puts its best foot forward. Mullanpur could be where India’s next “Test Heroes” emerge.