BCCI eyes Krunal Pandya's India comeback vs Afghanistan

Baroda and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Krunal Pandya is back on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s radar for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. According to reports, the selectors have discussed his name as a possible replacement for Axar Patel, whose recent form has been disappointing.

Krunal has been in excellent form in the IPL and played an important role in RCB’s two title-winning campaigns. Despite his strong performances, he has remained away from the Indian team. Now, the 35-year-old all-rounder could make his return to the national side during the Afghanistan T20I series in September, almost five years after his last appearance for India.

The need for a replacement has emerged as the Shreyas Iyer-led team looks to strengthen its left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder option. Since Ravindra Jadeja retired from the format, Axar Patel has taken up the role, but his recent performances have not been convincing enough. Krunal could now be considered as a like-for-like option for the position.

Why Krunal Pandya, not Axar Patel? Here's what's driving the selectors' rethink

Axar Patel’s recent performances could be one of the main reasons behind the selectors’ rethink. He featured in all seven T20Is during India’s tours of England and Ireland but managed only 4 wickets. He took 2 wickets in 5 matches against England and 2 in 2 games against Ireland, while also struggling with an economy rate of 11.14 in the England series.

Krunal Pandya, meanwhile, has improved his batting and become a more useful all-round option. He scored 226 runs in 9 matches during IPL 2026 at a strike rate of 145.80. Royal Challengers Bengaluru also trusted him to bat higher in the order, and he responded with important contributions. His recent form could give him an advantage in the selectors’ plans.

However, Krunal’s return does not necessarily mean Axar will be dropped. Both players offer different options, and India could consider selecting both depending on the conditions and opposition. With the Asian Games and a home series against the West Indies also coming up, the selectors have several factors to consider before finalising the squad.

From RCB star to possible India return — Krunal's 5-year wait could end vs Afghanistan

Krunal Pandya’s strong performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru have strengthened his case for an India return. In IPL 2026, he took 14 wickets and scored 226 runs at a strike rate of 145.81, playing an important role in RCB’s back-to-back title wins. Across his two seasons with the franchise, he has scored 335 runs and taken 31 wickets in 31 matches.

The Baroda all-rounder made his T20I debut against the West Indies in November 2018 and has played 19 matches for India in the format. He has scored 124 runs and taken 24 wickets, along with five ODI appearances. His experience, middle-over control and ability to contribute with the bat could make him a useful option for India.

However, his five-year absence from international cricket remains a major concern. T20 cricket has changed significantly since his last appearance in 2021, and Krunal is now 35 years old. While his IPL form makes a strong case for a recall, it remains to be seen whether he can quickly adapt to international cricket ahead of the Asian Games.

Axar Patel's Ireland & England struggles open the door for Krunal's T20I recall

Axar Patel’s struggles in the recent England series could open the door for Krunal Pandya’s return to the Indian team. Axar took only two wickets in five matches and also struggled with the bat. His recent performances have reportedly raised concerns, making Krunal a possible replacement for the left-arm spin all-rounder after almost five years.

India could also welcome back Hardik Pandya, who is expected to return after recovering from his injury. Nitish Kumar Reddy could also be included in the squad, while Washington Sundar’s fitness will be an important factor for the selectors. Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to be fully fit and could miss the series.

The three T20Is against Afghanistan are scheduled to be played on September 13, 15 and 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. With several players competing for places in the squad, the selectors will have some important decisions to make before finalising the team.