Afghanistan Bring In Stanikzai as They Opt to Bat First; India Stick With Unchanged XI

The Afghanistan national cricket team made one tactical adjustment at the toss, bringing in Stanikzai in place of Aqil, before electing to bat first against an unchanged India national cricket team. The decision signaled Afghanistan’s intention to make early use of the fresh surface and put scoreboard pressure on a strong Indian batting lineup.

Stanikzai’s inclusion adds stability and experience to Afghanistan’s middle order—a department they have looked to reinforce after recent inconsistencies. With aggressive openers setting the tone and stroke-makers filling the middle overs, Afghanistan aim to construct a total that allows their spinners to control the second half of the match.

India, meanwhile, saw no reason to alter a winning combination. Their top order has been in fluent form, and the bowling unit—featuring pace upfront and varied spin options—has delivered with discipline and precision. Keeping the same XI reflects India’s confidence in their balance and adaptability.

As the teams walked out for the national anthems, anticipation grew. Afghanistan’s bold choice to bat first could shape the rhythm of the contest, while India’s settled unit waits to apply pressure. With contrasting strategies in play, the match promises intrigue from the opening overs.