Read, Digital Desk : India and Afghanistan are about to begin their multi-format series with the only Test. The two sides are scheduled to face each other in one Test match and three ODI matches. The series will begin with the Test match and will be played at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh starting on June 6.

India’s squad for the only Test has been declared, and there is quite a buzz about the XI the hosts would choose to field against Afghanistan. The head coach of the Indian team revealed during his pre-match press conference that in-form batter Sai Sudharsan is all set to make his debut at no. 3.

According to the coach, Sudharsan has had a stellar season in the IPL where he registered more than 700 runs and was the third highest run-scorer.

“Sai Sudharsan is not being given a fair chance. His performances were largely seen in England and I believe he requires a fair chance. We are selecting only 11 players, and Sai isn’t struggling with form, having scored more than 700 runs in IPL. If we only rate Sai on the basis of a few matches, we’ll never be able to create anything, ” the head coach spoke to the reporters.

Spinners will be tested as a warm-up for the tour of Sri Lanka

Interestingly, Manav Suthar and Harsh Dubey also make it to the squad against Afghanistan, and in accordance with the head coach, the team intends to test out its spin department as they are aiming to finalize the four spinners to accompany them for the tour of Sri Lanka in this match itself.

“Manav and Harsh are a mix of similarities and differences, primarily in their release points. The Test match gives us an opportunity to finalize our fourth spinner as we will take as many as four spinners with us to Sri Lanka. New Zealand’s tour would demand different preparations, hence we have decided to include a few ODI specialists who also play Tests. We understand the importance of preparations for the longer format.”