India Likely Playing XI for 3rd T20I vs Afghanistan: Check Predicted 11

Having sealed the three-match T20I series with dominant victories in the first two encounters, Team India is poised to ring in changes for the dead-rubber third and final T20I against Afghanistan. The match is scheduled for Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi, commencing at 7:00 PM IST. This fixture provides a golden opportunity for the Men in Blue to test their bench strength and give valuable game time to players who have warmed the dug-out so far in the Friendship Cup 2026. Why Indian Cricket Team Is Allotted Visitors Dressing Room For IND vs AFG T20I 2026 Series?

India has showcased clinical performances in the series, securing the first T20I by seven wickets, thanks to a blistering 82 off 32 balls from Abhishek Sharma, and then clinching the second T20I with another seven-wicket win, highlighted by Sanju Samson's explosive 57 off just 22 deliveries. These victories have given India an unassailable 2-0 lead, bringing their T20I record against Afghanistan to 10 wins from 11 matches, with one no-result.

India's Likely Playing XI for the Finale

Given the series triumph, captain Shreyas Iyer and the team management might opt to rest key performers and introduce fresh faces. Expect to see some strategic alterations as India looks ahead to future assignments.

Here’s a look at the predicted playing XI for India:

• Abhishek Sharma : The in-form opener, born September 4, 2000, who starred in the first T20I, is likely to continue his aggressive approach at the top.
• Vaibhav Sooryavanshi : The promising youngster, born March 27, 2011, who impressed in the recent series against Zimbabwe, could be given an opportunity to open and showcase his talent.
• Shreyas Iyer (c): The skipper is expected to lead the side, providing stability to the middle order.
• Tilak Varma (vc): As vice-captain, Varma, born November 8, 2002, will likely hold his spot and contribute with his versatile batting.
• Sanju Samson (wk): Following his match-winning knock in the second T20I, Samson, born November 11, 1994, might retain his place, potentially taking on wicketkeeping duties.
• Shivam Dube: The all-rounder's power-hitting and medium-pace bowling will be crucial in the middle overs.
• Washington Sundar: The off-spinning all-rounder could come into the XI, offering control and an alternative spin option.
• Nitish Kumar Reddy : After his impressive three-wicket haul (3/24) in the second T20I, Reddy, born May 26, 2003, all-round skills will be vital.
• Ravi Bishnoi: The leg-spinner has been a consistent wicket-taker and will look to trouble the Afghan batsmen.
• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer might get another outing to hone his death bowling skills.
• Yash Thakur : Having replaced the injured Harshit Rana, Thakur, born December 28, 1998, could make his series debut, adding another dimension to the pace attack. Delhi Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for India vs Afghanistan 3rd T20I 2026.

India vs Afghanistan - Match Details

All eyes will be on the Arun Jaitley Stadium as both teams aim to conclude the series on a high note. While India seeks to maintain its winning momentum and test its reserves, Afghanistan will be playing for pride and a much-needed victory.

As the final whistle of the Friendship Cup approaches, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await to see if India's experimental approach pays off or if Afghanistan can pull off a consolation win. The match promises to be an engaging contest regardless of the series outcome.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 16, 2026 04:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).