India's squad for Afghanistan: 3 players that should be included in the upcoming T20 series

Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) season begins, India are set to play against Afghanistan for a three-match T20 series starting January 11. While the visiting nation have already released its squad, India have yet to do the same. As per reports, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be included in the squad after a long gap from T20 cricket. However, nothing is confirmed as of now. 

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Since the squad announcement is down the corner, it will be interesting to see what surprises are yet to be revealed the by selection committee. The Afghanistan team seem to be quite strong and confident this time with Ibrahim Zadran as captain. Even though Rashid Khan is a part of the squad, he might miss out on the playing 11 as he underwent back surgery. Apart from him, the young team is looking confident to play in India. 

Nonetheless, since India’s score is yet to be released, there are three players who should be included in the squad for the Afghanistan series. Let’s take a look at them. 

Deepak Chahar

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Deepak Chahar, the medium pacer, should get a chance to showcase his talent in the upcoming series. Chahar is a new ball specialist and can maintain his line and length which also helps in getting the early breakthroughs. Considering the T20 World Cup, the inclusion of Chahar might help India look for another pace option apart from Bumrah, Shami and Siraj. Even though Chahr has been prone to injuries, his comebacks have always been greater than setbacks. Keeping everything in mind, the selectors should consider him in the squad.

Yuzvendra Chahal

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One of the most underrated Indian bowlers, Yuzvendra Chahal has not got enough credits which he deserves in real life. Each time Chahal has played for India, he has proved why he deserves a place in the squad. Officials haven't justified his omission from several World Cup squads yet, however, one can only hope for his comeback in the team for the Afghanistan series. Chahal has taken 96 wickets in 79 matches and his best was 6/25. India could use a leggie in the form of Chahal if the selectors decide to pick him this time.

Must read: Rashid Khan back as Afghanistan name full strength squad for T20I series vs India

Jitesh Sharma

India’s new wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma should be included in the T20 squad against Afghanistan. Despite having a not-so-great series against South Africa, he deserves a spot in the team to experience a series on home soil. Moreover, we all are aware of his power-hitting shots and scoops from IPL 2022. His amazing performance continued in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy before getting his maiden India call-up in 2023.