India and Afghanistan They are set to lock horns in the one-off Test starting on June 6 in New Chandigarh. While the focus will naturally fall on some established names in both squads, the match also presents a golden opportunity for several rising talents to showcase their skills on the international stage.
For India, the game marks the beginning of an important phase World Test Championship period, while Afghanistan will try to continue its impressive growth in the longest format. With both teams having a mix of youth and experience, several players could play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the contest.
Players to watch out for in IND vs AFG one-off Test
The upcoming one-off Test between India and Afghanistan features an interesting mix of established performers and new talent. While India have relied on a few fresh faces looking to make a mark at the highest level, Afghanistan have brought back seasoned campaigners and exciting match-winners who can challenge any opposition. With conditions that can help both bowlers and spinners at various stages of the game, these five players can play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the contest.
1. Gurnoor Brar (India)
One of the most exciting uncapped fast bowlers in the Indian set-up, Gurnoor Brar comes into the limelight after a string of impressive local performances. The Punjab seamer has steadily built a reputation for producing steep bounce and maintaining ruthless accuracy in red-ball cricket.
Although he did not perform for Gujarat Titans (GT) during IPL 2026Brar’s top-notch numbers were hard to ignore. His performances during the 2024-25 indoor season established him as one of the top pace prospects in the country. If he does make his debut, his ability to use his seam movement and bounce can make him a real threat against Afghanistan’s batting line-up.
2. Harsh Dubey (India)
Tough Dubey Has shown remarkable growth over the past year and could be in contention for his Test debut. The left arm was part of the spinner Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) He impressed with eight wickets during IPL 2026 and in eight matches. What really stands out, however, is his first-class record. Dubey has already taken 133 wickets in just 27 matches, including multiple five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket hauls. His contribution with the bat adds to his value by scoring over 1,000 first-class runs. Dubey could prove to be an important weapon for India on a surface that is expected to help spin as the match progresses.
3. Nitish Kumar Reddy (India)
Nitish Kumar Reddy comes with increased confidence after an excellent IPL 2026 campaign. The all-rounder played a vital role for Sunrisers Hyderabad, contributing valuable runs in the middle order while providing useful passes with the ball. What makes Reddy particularly important in Test cricket is his balance. His ability to feature in multiple departments gives India added flexibility in team selection. Against an Afghanistan side known for its spin resources, Reddy’s attacking approach and medium-pace bowling could prove invaluable throughout the match.
Also READ: The BCCI has appointed a new spin bowling coach ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan
4. Rehmat Shah (Afghanistan)
Every time Afghanistan play Test cricket, Rehmat Shah remains one of their most reliable strikes. The experienced right-hander returns to the Test set-up after missing the previous tour of Afghanistan and is expected to fill the middle order. Having featured in almost every Test Afghanistan has played, Rahmat brings invaluable experience to a relatively young batting line-up. His patient approach and ability to absorb pressure make him a key figure, especially against India’s quality spin attack. Kuldeep Yadav and emerging Manav Suthar. Rahmat’s performance will be vital if Afghanistan are to challenge India.
5. Qais Ahmed (Afghanistan)
with Rashid Khan If he is unavailable for the Test, the extra responsibility will fall on the leg spinner Qays Ahmed. Although his Test experience remains limited, his first-class record underlines his effectiveness in longer format cricket. Qais has a wide range of tattoos that can be disturbing. Having gained experience in franchise leagues around the world, he brings confidence and unpredictability to Afghanistan’s bowling attack. If the pitch offers a turn later in the game, Gais could emerge as one of the biggest threats to India’s batting unit.
Also READ: Irfan Pathan picks the bowling attack of Team India for the one-off Test against Afghanistan
