Krunal Pandya could be in line for a return to the Indian T20I setup after more than five years away from international cricket.
The left-arm all-rounder has reportedly come under consideration for India’s upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. The selectors are believed to be looking at Krunal as they assess their options in the spin-bowling all-rounder department.
India will face Afghanistan in three T20Is in Delhi on September 13, 15 and 17.
Krunal back in the selection conversation
Krunal last played for India in July 2021, during the T20I series against Sri Lanka. Since then, he has remained outside the national setup despite continuing to feature prominently in domestic cricket and the IPL.
His name has now reportedly resurfaced as a potential option for the Afghanistan series.
The main reason behind the discussion appears to be India’s need for another left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder. Axar Patel has been an important member of India’s white-ball setup, but his recent performances have raised questions about his place in the short-format side.
Strong IPL season puts Krunal in the spotlight
Krunal’s recent performances have helped put him back on the radar.
During the 2026 IPL season, he played an important role for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, contributing with both bat and ball. His performances helped strengthen the case for another opportunity at the international level.
The 35-year-old has already played 19 T20Is for India, giving the selectors plenty of experience to consider if they decide to bring him back.
However, his selection has not been officially confirmed yet.
Axar Patel’s position could come under pressure
Axar has been a regular part of India’s limited-overs plans for several years, but his recent numbers have not been particularly impressive.
Reports suggest he picked up only four wickets across India’s recent matches against England and Ireland. That dip in form has reportedly prompted the team management to explore alternative options.
Krunal’s similar skill set could make him a natural backup if the selectors decide to make a change.
That does not necessarily mean Axar will be dropped. The final decision will depend on the selectors and the team’s requirements for the Afghanistan series.
India also expecting key players to return
Krunal is not the only player attracting attention ahead of the Afghanistan T20Is.
Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy are reportedly progressing well with their fitness, while Washington Sundar is also being assessed for a possible return.
Jasprit Bumrah’s availability remains less certain. The fast bowler continues to be monitored during his recovery, with the management reportedly taking a cautious approach to his return.
Five years after his last India appearance
For Krunal, the Afghanistan series could provide an unexpected opportunity to restart his international career.
He made his India debut in 2018 and went on to feature in both ODIs and T20Is. His last appearance, however, came in 2021.
If the selectors eventually include him in the squad, the Afghanistan series would mark his first India call-up in more than five years.
For now, Krunal’s return remains a possibility rather than a confirmed selection. The final Indian squad will reveal whether the selectors are ready to bring the experienced all-rounder back into the national team.
