India Likely Playing XI for 1st T20I vs Afghanistan: Check Predicted 11

New Delhi is abuzz as cricket fans anticipate the opening clash of the three-match T20I series between India and Afghanistan. The highly anticipated first encounter is scheduled for Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the iconic Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium, with the action set to commence at 7:30 PM IST. Officially hosted by Afghanistan on Indian soil, the series promises a thrilling contest as India, fresh from their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph, aims to assert dominance in the shortest format. Delhi Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2026.

Under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, the Men in Blue will be keen to find their optimal combination, especially after a mixed run since their T20 World Cup victory, including series losses to Ireland and England before a clean sweep against Zimbabwe. The squad features a blend of established stars and promising youngsters, all vying for a spot in the playing XI. Afghanistan, led by Ibrahim Zadran, boasts a formidable spin attack and will be looking to secure their first-ever T20I victory against India.

India's Squad for the Series

The Indian squad for the Afghanistan T20I series includes: Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma (vc), Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan (wk), Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Washington Sundar, and Yash Thakur. Yash Thakur was added as a replacement for the injured Harshit Rana.

Predicted India Playing XI for 1st T20I

Considering recent form, team balance, and the conditions expected at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, here is India's likely playing XI for the first T20I:

• Abhishek Sharma: The dynamic left-handed opener has been in impressive form in Punjab T20 League and will be eager to translate that into international success.
• Ishan Kishan (wk): A fearless wicketkeeper-batsman, Kishan's aggressive approach at the top provides quick starts.
• Shreyas Iyer (c): The captain will anchor the middle order, bringing stability and experience to the batting lineup.
• Tilak Varma (vc): The vice-captain's left-handed prowess and ability to accelerate make him a key component in the middle overs.
• Sanju Samson: Another attacking option, Samson can float in the batting order and provide crucial runs while offering wicketkeeping flexibility.
• Shivam Dube: The powerful all-rounder's ability to clear boundaries and chip in with medium pace will be vital.
• Axar Patel: A reliable left-arm spinner and handy lower-order batsman, Axar provides control and breakthroughs.
• Washington Sundar: His economical off-spin and composed batting add depth and balance to the side.
• Jasprit Bumrah: The pace spearhead's return (subject to fitness clearance) will significantly bolster India's death bowling.
• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer's swing and variations will be crucial in both powerplay and death overs.
• Yash Thakur: Replacing the injured Harshit Rana, Thakur will look to make an impact with his right-arm pace. 1980s AI Photo Trend: Team India Players React to Viral Retro Avatars in BCCI Video.

Head-to-Head

Historically, India has dominated the T20I encounters against Afghanistan, winning 8 out of 9 matches, with one ending in a no-result. Afghanistan is yet to register a T20I victory over India.

All three matches of the series will be played at the same venue in New Delhi, creating a consistent battleground for both teams. The series promises compelling cricket as Afghanistan seeks to challenge the reigning T20 World Champions on a familiar pitch.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2026 02:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).