In a much-anticipated clash marking the commencement of the 2024 cricket season, World No. 1 India are gearing up to take on Afghanistan in a three-match T20 international series, set to start on Thursday.
The series holds additional significance as Rohit Sharma is set to don the captain’s hat for India in T20Is as well. Rohit, known for his aggressive and strategic captaincy in white-ball cricket, will lead the Indian side against Afghanistan.
Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav, who took charge of the team in Rohit’s absence over the past year, will miss the series due to injuries. Their absence opens the door for fresh talent to make an impact in the upcoming games, while the return of Virat Kohli is expected to bring valuable experience and stability to the team.
Rohit and Virat last featured in a T20I for India during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, choosing to focus on the longer formats during the World Test Championship final and the ODI World Cup in 2023. Their return to the T20I squad has generated excitement among fans, as they are set to bring their wealth of experience and skill to the forefront.
On the other side of the pitch, Afghanistan will be led by Ibrahim Zadran in the absence of regular T20 captain Rashid Khan. Leg-spinner Rashid, known for his exceptional skills, was named in the squad but will miss the series due to ongoing recovery from a recent back surgery. Afghanistan, with their spirited and dynamic squad, will be eager to challenge the top-ranked Indian side and make a statement in the T20 format.
Also READ: IND vs AFG 2024 – India’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Afghanistan
India vs Afghanistan: T20I Fixtures
- 1st T20I: January 11, 2024; 1:30 pm GMT/ 7:00 IST at Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali
- 2nd T20I: January 14, 2024; 1:30 pm GMT/ 7:00 IST at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
- 3rd T20I: January 17, 2024; 1:30 pm GMT/ 7:00 IST at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Also READ: IND vs AFG, 2024 – Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against India
Broadcast and live streaming details
- India: JioCinema, Sports18 and Colors Cineplex
- USA: Sling TV – Willow TV (sign up here)
- Canada: Willow TV
- UK: TNT Sport
- UAE: etisalat – Switch TV