Shreyas Iyer signals changes to India’s XI for third T20I against Afghanistan in Delhi

India captain Shreyas Iyer said changes are likely to India’s playing XI for the third T20I against Afghanistan in Delhi on September 17 after India secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match series following their win in the second game.

India have used the Afghanistan series to test different combinations in the shortest format, aiming to extend their winning run and complete a series whitewash; the first two matches also provided valuable game time after a difficult spell against Ireland and England. With the series already won, the management has an opportunity to rotate the side and give match practice to squad members ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

“We want all of them to get used to the wicket and the conditions and also get some practice. So it would be a nice game to give opportunities to the players, especially who have been sitting out, and also change a little bit in the combination as well,” said Iyer during the post-match interview.

Players who did not feature in the first two T20Is include Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur and Washington Sundar, and Iyer’s comments point to chances for those who have been on the bench. Yash Thakur made his international debut during the Zimbabwe series and was picked as Harshit Rana’s replacement for both the Afghanistan T20Is and the upcoming Asian Games.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose omission after a strong showing against Zimbabwe drew attention, is among those likely to be considered for a recall. Sanju Samson, who received backing from team management, responded with a notable innings in the second T20I, prompting discussion over India’s opening options; Jasprit Bumrah was mentioned as a player who might be rested for the next game.

Confirmation of any changes has not been announced and the possibilities remain subject to final selection decisions. The India squad will name their XI ahead of the third T20I on September 17 in Delhi.