India's predicted playing XI for one-off Test against Afghanistan

Wicketkeeper and all-rounders

The fact that Dinesh Karthik was yet again overlooked despite stellar performances in the IPL came as a surprise, but Wriddhiman Saha's injury gave him the opening and he was named as Saha's replacement. Karthik will be looking to put in a solid shift and stake his claim for a permanent spot.

Hardik Pandya started the series against South Africa in fine fashion and was expected to be India's trump card but he faded away badly. Pandya struggles against the quick swinging ball and the Afghan pacers could cause him some problems.

However, if he gets set, he can take the game away from the opponents in a session.