Desk Correspondent , Delhi - The Indian selectors announced the Test squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan, with several major decisions highlighting a shift in leadership and squad planning. KL Rahul has been appointed India’s new Test vice-captain under skipper Shubman Gill, while pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been rested as part of workload management.

The biggest talking point from the Test squad announcement was Rahul replacing Rishabh Pant as vice-captain. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said the management wanted greater experience and stability in the leadership group ahead of crucial assignments. Bumrah’s exclusion comes as part of a long-term fitness management plan, especially with the Afghanistan Test not being part of the World Test Championship cycle. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has also been rested from the series.

The selectors also rewarded young performers, handing maiden Test call-ups to Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar after strong domestic and IPL campaigns. Pant retained his place in the Test side despite losing the vice-captaincy role, while players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel continue to be part of India’s evolving red-ball setup.

India’s Test squad reflects a balance between continuity and transition, with the management preparing a new leadership core while also building bench strength. With Gill leading the side and Rahul stepping into a bigger role, the Afghanistan series could shape India’s long-term Test plans.