Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s return to the T20I squad makes the upcoming Afghanistan series an important one from India’s of view. The duo hasn’t featured in T20I matches since the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final and there were a lot of doubts regarding their participation in the upcoming mega tournament. However, the selection committee cleared the doubts as the duo is set to make their return in the shortest format.

On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah are given a break from the T20I series against Afghanistan, which is slated to begin on January 11. On the other hand, Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are ruled out of the series as all three cricketers are dealing with ankle injuries at the moment. Meanwhile, who are the players to watch out for India in the three-match series? Let’s dissect:

3. Kuldeep Yadav

Even though Ravi Bishnoi is currently the number-two ranked T20I bowler, Kuldeep Yadav is likely to feature in the playing XI. He was the first-choice spinner in the South Africa series and the team management is likely to continue with him against Afghanistan. The series is going to be extremely important for the spinner as Bishoni is waiting in the wings, who can replace him if he fails to prove himself with the ball.

2. Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh has become a force to reckon with in the shortest format. This is the first time he will play alongside Virat and Rohit in the mix and if he manages to prove himself, the cricketer can very well earn a ticket to the upcoming T20 World Cup.

1. Sanju Samson

The series against Afghanistan will be extremely vital for Sanju Samson. If he manages to get the runs, the stumper-batter can feature in the T20 World Cup, else, it might very well be the end of the road for the cricketer.