Krunal Pandya could be in line for a return to the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan.
The left-arm spin all-rounder is reportedly under consideration by the selectors. India will play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan from September 13. All three matches will be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Krunal last played a T20I for India in July 2021. He featured against Sri Lanka in his most recent appearance for the national team.
Axar Patel’s form opens door for Krunal
India are looking at different options for the spin-bowling all-rounder role. This comes after Axar Patel’s modest returns in recent T20I series against England and Ireland.
Axar played all seven matches across the two series. However, he managed only four wickets. He took two wickets in four T20Is against England. He also claimed two wickets in two games against Ireland.
According to a Times of India report, Krunal’s possible return is now being discussed by the selection panel.
The 35-year-old has enjoyed a strong 2026 IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He picked up 14 wickets during the campaign.
Across two seasons with RCB, Krunal has scored 335 runs in 31 matches. He has also hit two fifties. With the ball, he has taken 31 wickets.
Krunal also worked on his bowling during the 2026 IPL season. He developed a faster delivery that reached 126 kilometres per hour.
His improved bowling pace could make him an attractive option for India.
Krunal has played five ODIs and 19 T20Is for India. He has scored 130 T20I runs at an average of 24.80, with a highest score of 26. He has also taken 15 wickets in the format.
The selection panel is expected to meet this week. The meeting will help decide India’s squad for the Afghanistan series and upcoming T20I assignments.
