India Likely Playing XI for 2nd T20I vs Afghanistan: Check Predicted 11

The Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in Delhi is set to host the second T20 International between Afghanistan and India today, September 15, 2026. This fixture is a pivotal part of the ongoing three-match T20I series, officially dubbed the 'Friendship Cup', where Afghanistan serves as the designated home team, utilising Indian venues due to prevailing security concerns in their own country. Varun Chakravarthy Ruled Out of India vs Afghanistan T20I Series 2026 Due to Injury: Report.

The match is scheduled to commence at 7:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST), promising an exciting evening of T20 cricket. With the first T20I already concluded on September 13, India will be looking to consolidate their position or make tactical adjustments based on the series opener's outcome.

India's Predicted Playing XI for 2nd T20I

Under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer and vice-captaincy of Tilak Varma, the Indian squad boasts a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent. After Varun Chakravarthy Is Ruled Out of the Tournament Due to Injury, Ravi Bishnoi might make it to India’s playing XI, Nitish Reddy might will make way for Washington Sundar. Here is a likely playing XI:

• Abhishek Sharma: The dynamic left-handed opener will aim to provide quick starts.
• Sanju Samson (WK): Returning to the squad, Samson is likely to take the gloves and provide impetus with his aggressive batting.
• Ishan Kishan (wk): A fearless wicketkeeper-batsman, Kishan's aggressive approach at the top provides quick starts.
• Shreyas Iyer (C): Leading from the front, Iyer's form in the middle order will be crucial.
• Tilak Varma (VC): The versatile left-hander offers stability and power in the middle order.
• Shivam Dube: His all-round abilities, particularly his power-hitting and medium-pace, make him a valuable asset.
• Axar Patel: The left-arm orthodox spinner and handy lower-order batsman is a consistent performer.
• Washington Sundar: Another spin-bowling all-rounder, Sundar's control and batting can add depth.
• Jasprit Bumrah: Subject to fitness and match rhythm, Bumrah's inclusion will bolster the pace attack significantly. He participated in full-squad training.
• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer will be key in the powerplay and death overs.
• Ravi Bishnoi: The attacking leg-spinner provides wicket-taking options in the middle overs. Why Indian Cricket Team Is Allotted Visitors Dressing Room For IND vs AFG T20I 2026 Series?

Players on the Bench: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi , Nitish Kumar Reddy, Varun Chakaravarthy, Yash Thakur.

This series offers crucial exposure for both teams, with India aiming to solidify their T20I unit and Afghanistan seeking to challenge a top cricketing nation on a regular basis. The second T20I promises to be another thrilling contest as both sides battle for supremacy in Delhi.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 15, 2026 11:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).